Lions, bears escape farm; owner found dead

  

ZANESVILLE, Ohio (KABC) -- The entire town of Zanesville, Ohio, was locked down after dozens of wild animals were suddenly let loose.

Forty-eight big animals including lions, tigers, cheetahs, wolves, giraffes, camels and bears ran off from a Zanesville animal farm.

The farm's owner was found dead and the facility's cages left wide open.

One resident took pictures of a bear on her property.

There have been dozens of animal sightings near homes and along freeways.

Authorities on "shoot to kill orders" gunned down one lion.

Police warned people to stay indoors.

"We're going to recommend to a couple of local school districts to probably close tomorrow just for safety reasons of kids standing at the bus stops," said Muskingum County Sheriff Matt Lutz.

Police say they have managed to kill nearly 24 of the animals.

But more remained at large Tuesday night.

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