In a bizarre turn of events, a kangaroo named Sheila caused a collision and brought traffic to a halt on Alabama’s Interstate 85 on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. The incident, which occurred around 11:50 a.m. near the 46-mile marker, left drivers stunned and created a significant disruption on the busy highway.

The Incident

The unusual situation began when Sheila, an Australian marsupial, escaped from her enclosure near Tuskegee and began hopping along the southbound lanes of I-85. Motorists were caught off guard by the sight of the kangaroo, leading to a two-vehicle crash. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), the drivers of both vehicles were uninjured in the incident, but the crash caused a temporary shutdown of the highway to ensure the safety of both motorists and the kangaroo.

Sheila’s unexpected appearance created an immediate traffic hazard. The drivers involved in the crash reportedly reacted with shock as they tried to avoid the agile marsupial. Despite the collision, no one was hurt, and both vehicles were able to be moved off the road without further incident.

Authorities Respond

Following the collision, law enforcement officials from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) and local authorities quickly arrived on the scene. With the highway temporarily closed in both directions, they initiated a response to safely capture the kangaroo. Sheila’s owner, Patrick Starr, was also contacted to assist in the recovery.

Using a tranquilizer dart, authorities subdued the kangaroo, allowing them to remove her from the highway. The rescue operation, which was carefully coordinated to prevent further accidents, was successful. Sheila was then transported to a safe location and later examined at the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. Fortunately, Sheila was found to be in good health after the ordeal.

Community Reaction

The incident drew a significant amount of attention, with many local residents and social media users expressing disbelief at the strange nature of the event. Macon County Sheriff André Brunson, who witnessed the incident firsthand, shared his reaction via a Facebook Live video, saying, “When somebody said there was a kangaroo, of course, I didn’t believe it.”

The post went viral, and soon, videos of Sheila hopping along the highway circulated widely online. It didn’t take long for the unusual story to capture national attention, as people across the country found themselves intrigued by the sight of a kangaroo causing a traffic disruption in the heart of Alabama.

Local news outlets and national media outlets alike have covered the story, with people commenting on how rare it is to see a kangaroo outside of Australia, let alone on an American highway. The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) was also quick to respond with a statement emphasizing the importance of traffic safety and encouraging drivers to remain alert for unusual hazards.

A Lesson in Roadway Safety

While Sheila’s escape and subsequent highway hopping may seem like a rare and quirky event, it serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise on the road. Authorities have stressed the importance of quick and coordinated responses when such incidents occur. In cases like this, ensuring public safety is paramount, and quick thinking can prevent further damage or injury.

Drivers are encouraged to exercise caution when traveling, particularly in rural areas or places where animals might be present. Local governments, including the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and Alabama Department of Transportation, have issued guidance for motorists to be aware of wildlife and other potential road hazards.

For more information on traffic safety and road conditions in Alabama, visit the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency websites.

A Closer Look at Sheila

Sheila, the kangaroo at the center of the incident, is owned by Patrick Starr, who was understandably concerned for his pet’s safety after she escaped. Starr, who operates an animal farm in the Tuskegee area, was relieved that Sheila was unharmed during the event. He has expressed gratitude for the quick response from law enforcement and the veterinary team who ensured that the kangaroo was safe and healthy after the ordeal.

Kangaroos, which are native to Australia, are not typically seen outside of zoos or specialized animal reserves in the United States. However, in rare cases, kangaroos can be privately owned as exotic pets or used in entertainment. The escape of Sheila has sparked discussion about the safety protocols involved in keeping such exotic animals and the responsibilities of their owners to ensure they remain securely contained.

Final Thoughts

The kangaroo incident in Alabama is a reminder that not every day on the highway is predictable. While Sheila’s leap into traffic might seem comical, it highlights the unpredictability of life and the importance of preparedness when handling unusual situations. Fortunately, no one was hurt, and Sheila made a safe return to her owner.

The event also underscores the importance of quick-thinking by authorities and community members in addressing unexpected hazards on the roads. As local authorities continue to deal with the aftermath, one thing is certain — this is a story that will be remembered for years to come.

For more updates and tips on how to stay safe on the roads, visit Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and