DES MOINES, Iowa — A bull that got loose during the Iowa Beef Expo at the Iowa State Fairgrounds Tuesday morning has been euthanized.

The Des Moines Police Department first notified the public through a post on X at 7:52 a.m. that the bull had been discovered missing, but they weren’t sure whether it had left the Fairgrounds’ property. They offered a warning not to approach the bull and instead call 911 if you see it.

At 9:49 a.m., DMPD posted that the bull had been captured.

A statement provided later in the morning by the Iowa Beef Expo revealed the bull had been euthanized for safety reasons.

“We regret to inform you that, despite our best efforts, the loose bull during the Iowa Beef Expo has been euthanized for safety. We understand the concern this may cause, and we share in that sadness. Our primary focus remains the safety and well-being of the people and animals at the show. We appreciate the swift and diligent response of staff and the cooperation of attendees and exhibitors. Our thoughts are with all those affected, and we are committed to learning from this experience to prevent similar occurrences in the future.”

A representative for the Iowa Beef Expo declined to provide information about how the animal was euthanized and said they had no further comment or information on the matter at this time.

The Iowa Beef Expo runs through February 18.

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