2025-06-08T19:39:00Z

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A runaway pet zebra that captured the hearts and attention of internet users across the globe has finally been apprehended after evading authorities for more than a week in Tennessee. This captivating story took a positive turn on Sunday when Ed, as the zebra is affectionately named, was captured safely in a pasture located near a subdivision in the Christiana community of central Tennessee. The Rutherford County Sheriff's Office confirmed the successful capture, highlighting the unique and somewhat dramatic measures taken to bring Ed back home.

According to the sheriff’s office, aviation crews were instrumental in the capture of Ed. In a bold and unusual operation, they airlifted the zebra, transporting him via helicopter back to a waiting animal trailer. The sheriff’s office provided a statement detailing the operation: “Ed was airlifted and flown by helicopter back to a waiting animal trailer.” In a video shared by the sheriff’s office, viewers can see Ed snugly wrapped in a net, his head protruding as he is lifted by the helicopter, a scene that surely delighted many who had been following his escapades.

Ed found his way to Christiana on May 30, according to reports from the sheriff’s office. The zebra's owner reported him missing the following day, triggering a wide-ranging search. The search intensified when Ed was spotted running along Interstate 24, prompting local deputies to temporarily shut down the roadway for safety reasons. However, Ed managed to escape into a wooded area, continuing his adventurous streak.

Throughout the week, numerous sightings of Ed were posted on various social media platforms, further adding to his growing fame. Videos and photos showed him trotting nonchalantly through neighborhoods, much to the delight of local residents and those tracking his journey online. Ed quickly became a viral sensation, inspiring a flurry of internet memes that showcased his humorous and charming escapades. One particularly funny fake post depicted Ed enjoying a meal at a Waffle House, a beloved Southern dining establishment, while others had him visiting various cities in Tennessee or humorously panhandling on the side of the road.

This whimsical incident isn't the first time a runaway animal has disrupted traffic in a significant way. Just last month, a kangaroo made headlines after it shut down part of an Alabama interstate, highlighting the unpredictable nature of wildlife and its occasional intersection with human activities.