Ashland, VA — Animal control officers in Ashland, Virginia were called to an unusual — and surprisingly comedic — scene over the weekend when a raccoon broke into a local ABC liquor store, tore through several shelves, consumed alcohol, and ultimately passed out in the bathroom.
The incident happened on Saturday, according to the Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter, who shared details after responding to the bizarre call.
A Break-In With a Boozy Twist
Store employees contacted authorities after discovering merchandise scattered across multiple aisles and realizing the culprit had taken refuge in the restroom. When animal control officers arrived, they found the raccoon unconscious in the ABC store’s bathroom, surrounded by signs of a very chaotic and very tipsy adventure.
Officials reported that the animal had damaged bottles, rummaged through shelves, and consumed enough liquor to become severely intoxicated. Exactly how the raccoon managed to enter the store remains under investigation, though break-ins involving wildlife are not unheard of in the region.
Rescue and Sobering Up at the Shelter
The responding officer carefully secured what the shelter humorously referred to as a “very intoxicated raccoon” and transported it to the Hanover animal shelter for observation.
Staff members monitored the raccoon for several hours as it slept off its impromptu night of overindulgence. After resting, the animal woke up alert and appeared unharmed, aside from what the shelter jokingly described as “a hangover and poor life choices.”
Once officers confirmed the raccoon wasn’t injured and was stable enough to return to its natural habitat, it was released back into the wild, as per the reports.
Store Damage and Wildlife Response
Although the raccoon’s escapade ended safely, the ABC store sustained damage to multiple shelves and lost several products. Employees spent part of the day cleaning up glass, restocking displaced items, and ensuring no additional wildlife had joined the mischief.
Animal control officers say it’s uncommon but not impossible for curious animals to break into commercial buildings, especially during colder months when creatures seek warmth — and, apparently, in this case, a strong drink.
The shelter’s playful recap of the raccoon’s adventure quickly spread online, prompting laughter and sympathy from locals amused by the animal’s liquor-fueled caper.
A Reminder About Wildlife Encounters
Officials encourage residents and business owners to secure doors, vents, and openings to prevent wildlife from wandering indoors. While the raccoon’s journey ended on a humorous note, close encounters can be dangerous for both animals and humans.
Still, this particular case will undoubtedly go down as one of the more memorable — and entertaining — calls for Hanover County’s animal protection officers.
What do you think about this raccoon’s wild night out? Should businesses take more precautions to keep curious critters out? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
