Ed the zebra has been named Tennessee’s ‘most wanted’; here’s his story

An interstate highway shut down, drones circling overhead, and tracking teams with trained dogs on the move - a runaway zebra has been turning Tennessee upside down.

By: Trends Desk

New Delhi | June 7, 2025 10:35 AM IST

The zebra bolted from a property in Christiana, where it had been delivered just a day earlier

Every so often, someone’s pet manages to slip away—a gate left open, a leash unhooked—and the search begins. Neighbours pitch in, flyers go up, and a familiar face is usually back home within hours. But in Rutherford County, Tennessee, the search this time is for something a little… less familiar.

For nearly a week now, residents have been trying to track down a runaway zebra. Yes, a zebra has been racing through fields and across roads, dodging every attempt to bring it back. And it’s turning this quiet southern county into the scene of one very unexpected adventure.

According to CBS News, the zebra, now affectionately known as Ed, bolted from a property in Christiana, where it had been delivered just a day earlier to owners Taylor and Laura Ford. Since its escape on May 31, Ed has been eluding capture, spotted sprinting alongside highways and disappearing into the woods. Deputies have been using drones to locate him, most recently catching sight of him grazing in a field about 40 miles southeast of Nashville.

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“We don’t want to scare the zebra,” said Sheriff’s Cpl00p. Sean White. “We need time to get him to calm down.”

As the chase unfolded, Ed’s story took off online. Originally named Zeke by the Fords, the zebra’s new name came courtesy of thousands of internet users who followed the saga. “Through viral posts, news coverage, and thousands of messages, he became known as Ed the Zebra. And now, he will be forever known as Ed – a symbol of joy, laughter, and unity,” the Fords said in a heartfelt statement.

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While Ed’s unexpected tour of Tennessee has brought plenty of smiles, not everyone is amused. Critics have raised concerns about the ethics and safety of keeping wild animals as pets. Angela Grimes, CEO of the animal welfare group Born Free USA, called the situation “unfortunate and completely avoidable,” emphasising that “zebras are wild animals. They do not belong in back yards, kept as pets, or put on display for human entertainment.”

Grimes also noted that such escapes can cause serious distress for the animals and may increase the risk of harm to people attempting to recapture them. Meanwhile, local officials say they’re coordinating with a veterinarian to ensure Ed’s safe return.

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