Unexpected reports out of Indiana brought the week to a strange close after authorities received claims that a lion and its cub were on the loose.
Videos by Wide Open Country
The Madison County Sheriff's Department said it received reports of a loose lion on Thursday, prompting authorities to search areas across Hancock and Madison counties.
A drone operator reportedly told police that they had spotted both an adult lion and a cub in a field, raising concerns among local residents.
Indiana Lion Report Sparks Four-Hour Search
Despite the reported sighting, authorities could not verify the presence of either animal following an extensive search of the area.
The sheriff's department said law enforcement officers spent around four hours searching the region but found no evidence of the lion or cub.
Officers deployed ground units and thermal drones during the operation in an attempt to locate the animals.
Authorities have urged anyone who spots either animal to immediately report its location to the Hancock County Sheriff's Department or Madison County Sheriff's Department.
As of Thursday afternoon, authorities had received no reports of missing animals from any nearby sanctuaries.
The Madison County Sheriff's Department also said it was unaware of anyone in the county holding a permit that would allow them to legally own a lion.
Escaped Donkey Injures Three People in Germany
In another bizarre incident involving a considerably less threatening animal, an escaped donkey recently caused havoc in Germany.
The donkey, named Freddy, injured three people after reportedly becoming aggressive in Holssel.
Two motorists managed to catch Freddy and attempted to keep hold of him. However, the donkey reportedly forced himself against their vehicle before the encounter took a violent turn.
Freddy then reportedly "became very aggressive," kicking and biting the two motorists.
A third person stepped in to help but also suffered injuries during the chaotic encounter.
Local reports state that the two motorists escaped with minor injuries. The third victim, a woman, suffered more serious injuries and required treatment at a hospital.
Freddy's owner eventually arrived at the scene and took the donkey away.
Cuxhaven police said in a statement that "the reason for the animal's aggressive reaction is still unclear."
