Circus Elephant Startled by Vehicle Backfiring in Montana Street, Still Performs on Monday

In a surprising turn of events, a circus elephant named Viola caused quite a stir in Butte, Montana, after being spooked by the sound of a vehicle backfiring. The pachyderm was getting a pre-show bath behind the Butte Civic Center when the unexpected noise startled her, causing her to break through a fence and take a brief walk down Harrison Avenue, the city’s busiest street.

Viola’s impromptu stroll stopped traffic and drew a crowd of onlookers who quickly pulled out their cellphones to capture the unusual sight. The elephant eventually made her way into a convenience store and casino parking lot before settling on a residential lawn to snack on some grass.

Fortunately, the circus team acted swiftly, bringing another elephant in a trailer to coax Viola back inside. Within 10 minutes, the wayward elephant was safely back in the trailer and ready to continue with her scheduled performances for the day.

Despite the unexpected detour, Viola still managed to participate in two performances that day and was said to be in good spirits. According to Civic Center manager Bill Melvin, “the show went on, as they say.”

Viola and the Jordan World Circus are set to continue their performances in the state capital of Helena on Wednesday, leaving the residents of Butte with a memorable story to share for years to come.