Indiana police rescued circus animals, including zebras, camels, and a miniature horse, from a burning trailer, with two officers treated for smoke inhalation. The truck driver was unharmed, and all animals were safely evacuated without injury.
The escape of three zebras in Maryland has shed light on the history of animal abuse by their owner, Jerry Lee Holly. Holly, who has operated animal-related businesses for 50 years, has faced multiple animal-related criminal charges and has a documented record of mistreatment and neglect of his animals. Despite numerous violations and citations, authorities have failed to shut down his operations. The recent discovery of a dead zebra with a snare trap near Holly's property has led to misdemeanor animal cruelty charges against him. Animal welfare experts criticize the lack of enforcement and communication between federal, state, and local agencies in regulating exotic animal ownership.