Authorities in Massachusetts are warning the public about a potential bull on the loose after eight bulls escaped from a rodeo in North Attleboro, about 40 miles south of Boston, on Sunday.
The incident occurred during a one-day event at the local Emerald Square Mall. Firefighters working on the security team saw eight bulls escape from their pens at around 12:30 p.m. The animals were seen running across the parking lot and managing to jump over the fence surrounding the event. The bulls were then said to have fled south from the parking lot into the woods behind a nearby restaurant and brewery.
One of the bulls was caught shortly after it escaped, and fire and police officials are searching for the remaining seven. Later that afternoon, six of the remaining seven were found trapped behind a residential fence, and rodeo workers were able to safely corral the animals into a trailer without further incident. No injuries have been reported and the incident is currently under investigation.
“One bull is believed to still be on the loose. Community members should exercise extreme caution and not approach the bull if it is found,” North Attleboro Fire Chief Christopher Coleman said in a statement. As of Monday morning, the remaining bull was still on the loose.
Attleboro resident Chris Mooney described the surreal scene when he saw a herd of bulls walking down the street and into his yard.
“As soon as I stepped outside and looked out, these weren't horses, these were literally bulls and oh my gosh,” Mooney said. NBCBoston“Two of them were lying on the ground, one was trying to get out by pushing the fence, and the others were just sitting there.”
Following authorities' advice, Mooney and his two sons stayed inside their home and watched from a safe distance. With any luck, the last bull will be caught before it runs afoul of local residents.