Pasco police officer holds an emu on a leash along railroad tracks (left), and the emu sits inside a patrol car (right). Courtesy: Dade City Police Department
DADE CITY, Fla. – A rogue emu sparked an unusual police chase after wandering through town before officers successfully brought the bird under control.
Wandering bird untamed
What we know:
Officers traded their normal traffic stops for an impromptu footrace when a loose emu began roaming through town. Dispatch sent officers on the unusual call early in the morning before their coffee even had a chance to kick in.
Police managed to bring the situation under control safely, ensuring no people or animals were harmed during the ordeal. Officers later noted that chasing giant birds was not covered in their police academy training.
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A police officer uses a catch pole to safely guide an emu at a road crossing. Courtesy: Dade City Police Department
Unanswered details
What we don’t know:
Authorities have not released details regarding where the emu originally came from or who owns the bird. It remains unclear how the animal managed to escape or where it was housed after being secured by officers.
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