A lion escaped from an Italian circus and took naps around the seaside town of Ladispoli after sparking panic amongst local residents. The lion, named “Kimba,” went missing for approximately seven hours before authorities were able to recapture him.
Footage and images, some taken by locals, went viral displaying the lion strolling around the town streets, walking by homes and fences, and standing in front of a police car. Local officials are conducting an investigation to determine how the lion was able to escape from its metal enclosure.
According to the circus’s animal supervisor and trainer, it is unusual for a lion to open a latch and break a lock. The Mayor of Ladispoli stated on Facebook that he would request that council experts check if there were legitimate grounds to revoke the permits for the “Rony Roller” circus.
Some citizens expressed understanding for Kimba, stating that it is unfortunate that the lion is in captivity instead of in its natural habitat in the savannah.