Zebra that sprinted through Atlanta euthanized

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Lima, a 12-year-old circus zebra that caused a stir when he escaped from an animal compound and ran through downtown Atlanta last month has been euthanized.

A statement posted on Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey's Web site explains veterinarians were unable to repair the animal's hooves, which were damaged when he ran through the city.  Lima led his trainers and police on a 40-minute chase through downtown February 19th. Police eventually helped capture the animal on an interstate.

Ringling Bros. says it has worked with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to review policies and ensure no other animals flee.  Spokeswoman Crystal Drake says the circus was guided to euthanize the animal by his prospects for a comfortable life -- not
his ability to perform in the future.

In a statement Thursday, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals blamed the circus' violation of handling regulations for
the death.