Zookeepers refuse to save drowning chimpanzee – then a truck driver breaks into his cage

December 24, 2025 by salah

But Rick didn’t hesitate. His family watched in awe as he pulled Jo-Jo out of the water and onto dry land. And it wasn’t the easiest thing…

At one point Rick lost hold of Jo-Jo and the he disappeared under water. But after another attempt, Rick was eventually able to rescue the 18-year-old, 200-pound (90 kg) chimpanzee.

When Jo-Jo got out of the water, he was in poor condition — but still alive. Rick had saved him.

“He was looking at me. I think he knew what was going on,” Rick told the Chicago Tribune.