Drivers traveling through rural New Jersey encountered an unusual roadblock during a recent morning commute. They saw approximately 15 pigs after they escaped from their enclosure and wandered near a busy roadway.
The animals were reported along Route 565 in Frankford Township on Wednesday, July 29. New Jersey State Police responded at approximately 8:38 a.m.
The pigs were running loose, posing a potential hazard to motorists. Officials did not confirm how the animals escaped from the nearby property.
State troopers, animal control officers and the owner worked together to bring the situation under control. Luckily, the incident ended without any reported injuries to the pigs or the public.
Troopers Contained the Pigs Along the Road
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An official Facebook post from the Wantage Township Animal Shelter shows the pigs gathered along the roadside as troopers monitored them. Police kept the animals contained until Wantage Animal Control officers reached the scene. The officers then began guiding the group back toward the property.
The pigs’ owner arrived a short time later and helped move them into their pasture. Northwest New Jersey radio station WRNJ reported that everyone made it home safely. “We’re happy to report that all of these piggies are safely back home,” the shelter said.
Officials Asked Drivers to Put Down Their Phones
The animal shelter reminded motorists that loose livestock and other unexpected animal encounters can happen in rural Sussex County.
Drivers should slow down and remain alert when police or animal control officers are working beside the road. Motorists should also leave enough space for responders to contain the animals safely.
Officials specifically warned people not to use their phones to take pictures or record videos while driving past an incident. Becoming distracted could create another hazard for responders, animals and other travelers. The shelter thanked the state troopers, animal control officers and the owner for working together.