Raccoon Breaks into Virginia Liquor Store for Spirits
In an unusual twist, a raccoon decided to spend its Saturday morning indulging in a liquor binge at a Virginia store. The furry intruder was discovered by staff after a holiday closure, having consumed alcohol and ultimately ending its escapade passed out in the bathroom.
This event highlights the fascinating, yet chaotic, interactions between wildlife and urban settings. It serves as a reminder of how natural instincts can lead animals into unexpected situations, causing both concern and amusement for those involved.
Key Developments
- Staff at the Ashland ABC Store found a raccoon in a state of inebriation upon reopening after Thanksgiving.
- The animal broke in through a ceiling tile and consumed various bottles of liquor, predominantly scotch.
- Animal control officer Samantha Martin transported the raccoon for assessment at the Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter.
- After resting and showing no injuries except potential signs of a hangover, the raccoon was released back into the wild.
- A blurry CCTV image is the only evidence of the raccoon’s liquor-fueled adventure.
Full Report
The Incident
On Saturday morning, staff members of the Ashland ABC Store made a startling discovery. After a Thanksgiving closure, they encountered a raccoon that had infiltrated the store, causing substantial damage and leaving behind a notable mess. Liquor was spilled across the floor, and the raccoon was found wedged between a toilet and a trash bin in a state of unconsciousness.
The Culprit
Dubbed a “masked bandit,” the raccoon reportedly fell through a ceiling tile prior to going on a drinking spree. Officer Martin, the animal control officer assigned to the case, remarked that the raccoon went on what could only be described as a “full-blown rampage,” sampling an array of beverages from the lower shelves.
Professional Assistance
After assessing the situation at the store, and with the raccoon showing no apparent injuries from the escapade—aside from perhaps a hangover—Martin transported the animal to the Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter. Expressing gratitude on social media, the store praised the shelter’s professionalism and their efforts to ensure the raccoon had a “sober ride home.” After a few hours of rest, it was safely released back into its natural habitat.
Context & Previous Events
The Ashland ABC Store was closed for the Thanksgiving holiday, which coincided with the incident referred to as its “Black Friday break-in.” This unusual event provides an entertaining glimpse into both urban wildlife behavior and the unexpected situations that can arise in retail environments.
