40 monkeys escape South Carolina research facility; police warn residents to secure doors and windows

Authorities in South Carolina have warned residents to lock their doors and windows after 40 monkeys escaped from a research facility Wednesday night.

The primates broke loose from a Alpha Genesis facility in Beaufort County and traps have been set up and thermal imaging cameras are being used in an effort to locate the fugitive monkeys, the Yemassee Police Department said in a statement.

"Residents are strongly advised to keep doors and windows secured to prevent these animals from entering homes," police said. "If you spot any of the escaped animals, please contact 911 immediately and refrain from approaching them."