News Summary
The search for Ed, a zebra who went missing nearly a week ago, has intensified after he was spotted in a tree line off Interstate 24. Authorities are using drone technology and enlisting community help to safely return Ed, who has become a local sensation. His story has united the community amid concerns for his safety and wellbeing, while authorities caution the public to avoid the search areas.
Murfreesboro, Tennessee – The search for Ed the zebra, who has gone missing for nearly a week, intensified after he was spotted in a tree line off Interstate 24 in Rutherford County on Friday morning. Drone footage capturing this sighting revealed Ed’s location and was shared widely, prompting further efforts to secure his safe return.
Ed, who escaped from his owner’s property on May 31, was acquired from a Texas breeder just a day before his adventurous getaway. Alongside Ed, a companion zebra was also brought from Texas but is currently safe, secured in a horse stable while the search for Ed continues.
Locals have been captivated by Ed’s story, which has not only sparked interest in the community but has also caught the attention of out-of-state drivers. As the story spread, it became evident that Ed’s saga has turned into a source of entertainment and unity for many, with memes and jokes featuring Ed circulating across various social media platforms.
Authorities have labelled Ed as a very skittish zebra, complicating the ongoing efforts to bring him back home. The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office has advised the public to avoid the search areas to ensure the safety of both the zebra and those involved in the capture attempts. In addition, they expressed the need for the public’s assistance: if spotted, viewers are encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff’s department has been proactive in the search, utilizing drone technology to monitor Ed’s movements and has enlisted the help of a veterinarian to assist with his rescue. Meanwhile, Ed’s owner continues to collaborate with drone teams and is implementing additional trail cameras in hopes of tracking his whereabouts.
Prior to this recent sighting, Ed was reported to have caused disruption, escaping through neighborhoods and a parkway, raising concerns about safety for both him and the residents attempting to help capture him. Local zebra owners have also warned individuals about the potential dangers involved in approaching the animal.
The emotional distress surrounding Ed’s disappearance is also evident in the owner’s statements, who expressed gratitude for the community’s overwhelming support throughout this trying time. Although Ed was officially named “Zeke” by his owners, he is widely referred to as “Ed” due to social media’s viral influence. This widespread recognition has only added to the ongoing effort to find him.
The sense of community surrounding Ed’s loss underscores the emotional connection that many have with the zebra’s story. While the search continues, it remains imperative that authorities keep the public informed while focusing on bringing Ed home safely.
As the days progress, the search is expected to persist, with the local sheriff’s office maintaining vigilance and employing all available resources to locate Ed. The community watches with hope for a successful resolution to Ed’s adventurous escapade, which has unexpectedly united many through laughter and concern.
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Additional Resources
- WSMV: Missing TN Zebra Evades Capture
- WSMV: Owner Renames Missing Zebra
- USA Today: Runaway Pet Zebra Goes Viral
- WBIR: Search for Missing Zebra Enters Day Four
- WSMV: Missing Zebra Found
- Wikipedia: Zebra
- Google Search: Zebra
- Google Scholar: Zebra
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Zebra
- Google News: Zebra

Author: HERE Nashville
The NASHVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENashville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Nashville, Davidson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as CMA Fest, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, and Nashville Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and Nashville Health Care Council, plus leading businesses in healthcare, automotive, and technology that power the local economy such as HCA Healthcare, Bridgestone Americas, and Asurion. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HEREMemphis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.

