The City of Frankfort released information regarding an incident that occurred yesterday, Jan. 16 at the Frankfort Parks Department Zoo where three animals were reported deceased.
According to the department, during routine animal checks on Thursday, zookeepers located one deer in distress and one deer and two chickens deceased in the barn at the zoo. Frankfort Mayor Judy Sheets commented about the situation, stating that the loss of the animals is a tragic incident for the city, the staff and visitors.
“We are deeply saddened by this event as these animals have been in the care of the Frankfort Parks Department for many years,” Sheets wrote. “When I arrived on the scene today, Park employees commented that Elliott, the deceased deer, used to follow the zookeepers and park staff around the zoo trying to take their gloves or keys out of their pocket and run off with them.”
Sheets stated that, as with a recent released regarding violations issued by the USDA for the aviary and zoo, the City and Parks staff are abiding by the protocols set forth by the state departments in regard to the deceased animals.
“We are following the protocols advised to us from DNR and the USDA,” Sheets wrote. “As soon as we were made aware of the situation, I contacted Purdue University Veterinary Hospital, DNR and the USDA to ensure proper protocols were followed and to begin investigating the cause. We have and will remain in contact as this unfolds.”
According to the City, the distressed deer is currently receiving medical attention at the Purdue University Animal Hospital and will be monitored closely by the veterinarians. Necropsies are reportedly being conducted on the deceased animals at Purdue University to determine the cause of death.
The City stated that the Frankfort Police Department is investigating all available evidence, which includes footage from the six security cameras located within the zoo, to understand the sequence of events.
“We remain committed to the care of the animals at the TPA Park Aviary and Zoo,” Sheets wrote. “Our policies remain under review, and we are fully investigating this incident.”
According to the City, it takes full responsibility for the well-being of the animals in its care, and it is aspiring to ensure the highest standards of care at the aviary and zoo.
