Rhino Breaks Free From Enclosure At Henry Doorly Zoo In Omaha

The Henry Doorly Zoo confirmed it had a rhino on the loose on Tuesday afternoon (September 7).

Jontu, the 5,000-pound Indian rhinoceros, escaped from his enclosure. Officials of the Omaha zoo urged guests to evacuate that part of the zoo or safely sheltered inside secure locations until Jontu was found. Staff will reportedly evaluate the lock on the door where Jontu escaped, according to the Associated Press.

“This is the kind of thing we practice for all the time and, of course, we hope it never happens,” said Dan Cassidy, Vice President of animal management at the zoo, according to the Omaha World-Herald.

Officials confirmed that he was on the lam for less than an hour in a behind-the-scenes area, which is closed off to the public.

The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium took to Facebook Live to share an update after the incident:

“At about 1 p.m. today [Tuesday], Zoo officials were alerted of an Indian rhino out of its enclosure in a behind-the-scenes area. The rhino was Jontu, our adult male Indian rhino and Marshall's father.

“The Zoo’s emergency protocols were immediately activated to ensure the safety of guests, students, animals, and employees.

“Zoo guests, students and staff were immediately taken to a secure location. All Zoo entry points, including the main entrance, were also closed.

“Normal business operations have resumed.”

Watch the update here: