Possible Mountain Lion Spotted in Rochester, NY

Residents of Rochester, upstate New York, were startled this week by reports of a possible mountain lion sighting, prompting authorities to issue a brief shelter-in-place order. The alert was sparked after social media videos and witness accounts indicated the presence of a large, feline predator in the area.

One witness, Curtis Jones, described an encounter while walking down the street, where he said he saw the animal and heard it growl. He remarked, “It said ‘rawr,’ and I just kept walking. I saw it seeing me, so I thought it was best to leave.” Jones noted that such a sighting was unprecedented for him, only familiar from movies.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) examined doorbell camera footage and noted that the measurements taken at the scene suggest the animal might indeed be a mountain lion. Aerial drone footage was also used in the investigation, but no definitive visual confirmation was obtained.

Rochester police responded quickly after social media videos and numerous calls from concerned residents suggested a large feline was nearby. A shelter-in-place order was issued out of caution but was later lifted when authorities couldn’t confirm the presence of the animal.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office also participated in the search using a drone, but no signs of the creature were found. The nearby Seneca Park Zoo assured the public that none of its animals had escaped, dispelling fears of a zoo escapee.

The DEC advises the public to remain cautious, keep a safe distance during encounters, and report any sightings to law enforcement immediately. While the investigation continues, residents are urged not to approach or attempt to capture the animal.