What Gun Did Harambe Get Shot With? The Controversial Details
The gorilla Harambe was tragically shot and killed with a Remington Model 870 shotgun. This specific firearm was chosen for its reliability and stopping power at close range, a critical consideration given the immediate danger posed to a child.
Understanding the Circumstances Surrounding Harambe’s Death
The death of Harambe, a western lowland gorilla at the Cincinnati Zoo in May 2016, sparked widespread outrage and debate. While the grief was universal, the decision to use lethal force – and the specific weapon used – remains a point of contention. This article delves into the specifics of the firearm and the rationale behind its use. What gun did Harambe get shot with? Understanding the context is crucial to appreciating the complexities of the situation.
The Remington Model 870 Shotgun: A Reliable Workhorse
The Remington Model 870 is a pump-action shotgun renowned for its reliability, durability, and ease of use. It’s a widely used firearm in law enforcement, hunting, and civilian applications. Its prevalence and reputation made it a logical choice for the Cincinnati Zoo’s dangerous animal response team.
Why a Shotgun? The Rationale Behind the Choice
The decision to use a shotgun was primarily driven by the need for immediate and decisive action. Tranquilizer darts, while considered, posed significant risks:
- Delayed Effect: Tranquilizers can take several minutes to take effect, during which time Harambe could have inflicted serious harm or even death upon the child in his enclosure.
- Unpredictable Reaction: The reaction of an animal as large and powerful as Harambe to a tranquilizer is unpredictable. It could potentially agitate him further, exacerbating the danger.
- Close Proximity: The proximity of the child to Harambe meant there was no room for error. A single misstep or delay could have had catastrophic consequences.
Given these factors, the zoo’s team opted for a firearm with immediate stopping power to neutralize the threat as quickly and effectively as possible.
The Ammunition Used: Further Considerations
While the type of shotgun is known, the specific type of ammunition used is not definitively publicly stated. However, given the situation, likely options included:
- Buckshot: This type of ammunition disperses multiple projectiles upon impact, increasing the chance of hitting the target and delivering significant trauma.
- Slugs: A single, large projectile designed to deliver maximum stopping power.
Regardless of the specific choice, the ammunition would have been selected to incapacitate the gorilla as quickly as possible, minimizing the risk to the child.
Impact on Zoo Animal Emergency Response Protocols
The Harambe incident significantly impacted zoo animal emergency response protocols worldwide. Many zoos have re-evaluated their procedures, focusing on:
- Enhanced Barrier Systems: Strengthening enclosures to prevent animal escapes and unauthorized entry by visitors.
- Improved Training: Providing staff with more comprehensive training in animal behavior, crisis de-escalation, and the safe use of non-lethal alternatives.
- Review of Lethal Force Protocols: Refining guidelines for when lethal force is justified and exploring alternative methods for handling dangerous animal situations.
A Lasting Legacy: The Ethical Debate Continues
The events surrounding Harambe’s death continue to fuel ethical debates about animal welfare, the role of zoos, and the responsibilities of humans in protecting both animals and themselves. It underscores the need for constant vigilance, improved safety measures, and a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between humans and the animal kingdom. The question “What gun did Harambe get shot with?” is a starting point for a much larger and more profound conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly is a Remington Model 870?
The Remington Model 870 is a widely popular pump-action shotgun known for its reliability and versatility. It features a manually operated pump that ejects spent shells and chambers new ones. Its simple design and robust construction have made it a favorite among hunters, law enforcement officers, and recreational shooters for decades.
Why was a shotgun chosen over a tranquilizer gun?
A shotgun was selected due to the immediate danger posed to the child. Tranquilizer darts take several minutes to take effect, and there was no guarantee that Harambe wouldn’t further harm the child during that time. The shotgun provided immediate stopping power.
Is the Remington Model 870 considered a humane weapon for such situations?
The term “humane” is subjective in this context. While a shotgun is a lethal weapon, it was chosen because it offered the best chance of quickly neutralizing the threat to the child. The priority was the child’s safety.
What other options were considered before using lethal force?
According to reports, zoo officials considered various options, including attempting to lure Harambe away from the child. However, given the immediate risk and the gorilla’s unpredictable behavior, these options were deemed too risky.
What kind of ammunition was used in the shotgun?
While the specific ammunition is not publicly confirmed, buckshot or slugs were likely used to maximize stopping power.
Could the zoo have used a less powerful gun?
The zoo’s primary concern was the safety of the child. A less powerful gun might not have been effective in immediately stopping Harambe, potentially prolonging the danger.
Did the zoo follow standard protocols for handling dangerous animals?
According to reports, the zoo followed its established protocols for handling dangerous animal situations. However, the incident prompted a review and revision of those protocols.
Has this incident changed how zoos handle similar situations?
Yes, the Harambe incident has led to increased scrutiny of zoo safety protocols and a greater emphasis on non-lethal alternatives for managing dangerous animal situations.
What responsibility did the child’s parents have in this situation?
The child’s parents faced intense scrutiny. While accidents happen, the incident highlighted the importance of parental supervision in public places, especially near animal enclosures.
How much does a Remington Model 870 typically cost?
The price of a Remington Model 870 varies depending on the model, features, and condition. However, a basic model can typically be purchased for several hundred dollars.
Could the enclosure have been made more secure to prevent this incident?
This is a key point. The incident raised serious questions about the adequacy of the enclosure’s design and safety features.
Why does the discussion about What gun did Harambe get shot with? continue years later?
The incident touches on fundamental questions about animal rights, human responsibility, and the ethics of keeping animals in captivity. The intense public reaction reflects a deep societal concern for animal welfare. And ultimately answering What gun did Harambe get shot with? doesn’t solve the much larger issues it opened up.