Key Takeaways:
- A masked burglar broke into a Virginia liquor store and caused significant damage, but the suspect was not a person, but a raccoon.
- The raccoon, who had been drinking, was found passed out on the bathroom floor and was taken to an animal shelter by a local animal control officer.
- Raccoons are common in Virginia and can be found in various environments, including forests, parks, and cities.
- The raccoon was safely released back into the wild after sobering up, with a warning to not engage in break-ins again.
- This incident is not the first time a raccoon has been found in a unusual situation, as a similar incident occurred in Ohio in May where a raccoon was found with a methamphetamine pipe in its mouth.
Introduction to the Incident
The bizarre incident occurred early on Saturday morning at a closed Virginia liquor store, where a masked burglar broke into the premises and caused significant damage. However, the suspect was not a person, but a raccoon. The animal, which had been drinking, smashed bottles, collapsed a ceiling tile, and left alcohol pooled on the floor. The raccoon’s rampage was eventually brought to an end when it passed out on the bathroom floor, where it was found by an employee of the store.
The Raccoon’s Rampage
According to Samantha Martin, a local animal control officer, the raccoon "fell through one of the ceiling tiles and went on a full-blown rampage, drinking everything." Martin, who is a fan of raccoons, described them as "funny little critters." She took the raccoon back to the animal shelter, where it was able to sober up. Martin’s experience with the raccoon was not without its challenges, but she was able to handle the situation with professionalism and humor, saying "another day in the life of an animal control officer, I guess."
Raccoons in Virginia
Raccoons are common in Virginia, according to the state’s Department of Wildlife Resources. They can be found in forests, parks, and sometimes in cities, where they can often be seen rummaging through trash cans and gardens. The Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter commended Martin for her handling of the break-in and confirmed that the raccoon had sobered up and was safely released back into the wild. The agency also took the opportunity to remind the public that breaking and entering is not the answer, even for raccoons.
Previous Incidents
This incident is not the first time a raccoon has been found in a unusual situation. In May, a raccoon was found with a glass methamphetamine pipe in its mouth and was sitting in the driver’s seat of a car in Ohio. The vehicle was pulled over because its registered owner had an active warrant and a suspended driver’s license. The incident highlights the often unexpected and unpredictable nature of wildlife, and the importance of being prepared for any situation.
Conclusion
The incident at the Virginia liquor store serves as a reminder of the importance of securing premises and protecting wildlife from harm. It also highlights the often humorous and unpredictable nature of animal behavior. The raccoon’s rampage may have caused significant damage, but it also brought a smile to the faces of those involved. As Martin said, "I personally like raccoons… they are funny little critters." The incident will likely be remembered for a long time, and will serve as a reminder of the importance of appreciating and respecting wildlife.