Schools Closed As Exotic Animals Prowl Ohio

(CNN) -- Officials in eastern Ohio declared schools closed Wednesday as sheriff's deputies equipped with night vision attempted to hunt down dozens of exotic animals -- including bears, lions, tigers and cheetahs -- that escaped from a preserve following the death of its owner

.Muskingum County Sheriff Matt Lutz said deputies, armed with shotguns, were patrolling areas in pickup trucks early Wednesday morning.

"There are still thought to be several dangerous animals on the loose, creating a public safety threat."

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