**BREAKING: ZEBRA ON THE LOOSE IN TENNESSEE, CAUSING PANDEMONIUM ON THE HIGHWAY**
In a bizarre incident that has left authorities baffled and motorists bewildered, a rogue zebra named “Zeke” broke free from his owner’s backyard in rural Tennessee and went for a wild ride on the highway.
According to eyewitnesses, Zeke, a 5-year-old male zebra with a mischievous glint in his eye, was seen galloping down I-40, weaving in and out of traffic and leaving a trail of chaos in his wake.
“I was driving to work when suddenly, out of nowhere, this…this…thing comes bounding onto the highway,” said local resident, Bubba Jenkins. “I thought it was a wild mustang or something, but then I saw the stripes and I’m like, ‘Lord have mercy, it’s a zebra!'”
The zebra, described as “striped, speedy, and seemingly unstoppable,” reportedly reached speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, dodging cars and trucks with ease.
“I tried to pull over and get a selfie with him, but he was like a little black-and-white bullet,” said another motorist, Karen Wilson. “I mean, I’ve seen some crazy things on the road before, but a zebra on the loose? That’s a new one.”
Authorities are urging drivers to exercise extreme caution when traveling through the area, as Zeke is still on the loose and showing no signs of slowing down.
“We’re doing our best to catch this…this…zebra-nator,” said Sheriff John Smith of the Tennessee Highway Patrol. “But let me tell you, this little guy is fast. We’ve got officers deployed all along the highway, but so far, no one’s been able to lasso him.”
Meanwhile, Zeke’s owner, local farmer Jimmy Johnson, is offering a reward for the safe return of his beloved pet.
“I just want my zebra back,” Johnson said, shaking his head. “I mean, I know he’s a handful, but I love the little guy. If anyone sees him, just please, for the love of all things striped, catch him and bring him home.”
In the meantime, residents are advised to keep their windows closed and their snacks secure, as Zeke is reportedly quite fond of snacks.
**UPDATE:** A reward has been increased to $1,000 for anyone who can provide information leading to the capture of Zeke the zebra. If you have any information, please contact the Tennessee Highway Patrol immediately. And if you see Zeke, just…just try to stay calm and maybe offer him a carrot or something.
