Mink escape in Oregon after fence is cut by suspected intruders

Approximately 1,500 mink escaped from Cascade Farm in Turner, Oregon, after an intruder cut a hole in a chain-link fence late at night. The Marion County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident, which occurred while the farm manager, his family, and other employees were sleeping on the property.

Authorities reported that about 90% of the animals have since been recovered. However, officials noted that any mink not recovered within 48 hours face a high risk of death due to starvation, thirst, or predation.

The Animal Liberation Front, a decentralized group of animal rights advocates, has been linked to the incident. While the group stated they had not received an official communique claiming responsibility, a spokesperson for the North American branch noted the action is consistent with their group's tactics. Challis Hobbs, executive director of Fur Commission USA, characterized the event as a “criminal act” rather than activism, highlighting the safety concerns for the families living on the farm site.