'Wayward' emus run riot: Australian bird leads US police on 45-minute chase

"Wayward" Emus Cause Chaos in US Police Chases

In an unusual law enforcement event, police in the United States spent 45 minutes capturing an escaped emu after it fled from its owner. The incident took place in Guernsey County, Ohio, on October 17.

Body-camera footage reveals officers confronting the Australian bird, expertly using dog catcher poles to herd and contain it. One deputy warned that emus "can be aggressive," while another humorously said, "I guess I'll fight him with a stick" as he grabbed the poles.

"In all seriousness, the deputies handled the situation with skill and professionalism, proving they can tackle just about anything—whether it's a serious incident or a wayward emu."

The Guernsey County Sheriff's Office commended the officers for their effective response, emphasizing that no birds, bystanders, or deputies were harmed. They noted this was "just another day in law enforcement, where surprises are always on the horizon, and sometimes they have feathers!"

Another Emu Spotted in Arizona

Almost two weeks later, on October 28, another emu named 'Frank' was spotted running along a highway in Arizona, nearly 3000 kilometers from Ohio. Cottonwood Police Department officers responded after multiple 9-1-1 calls reported the emu darting through traffic.

Two officers successfully negotiated with Frank and managed to bring him under control.

Summary

These incidents highlight unexpected challenges police face, showcasing their adaptability in handling anything from serious crimes to roaming emus without harm to people or animals.

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The Canberra Times The Canberra Times — 2025-11-06