Intoxicated Raccoon's Boozy Rampage in Ashland
In a bizarre incident that has captured national attention, a raccoon broke into a Virginia liquor store in Ashland and went on a destructive drinking spree before passing out intoxicated on the bathroom floor. The masked bandit's late-night escapade occurred at a Virginia ABC store in Hanover County on November 29, 2025, leaving behind a trail of broken bottles and spilled spirits.
The Break-In and Destruction
According to Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter officials, the raccoon gained entry by falling through a ceiling tile, crashing into the store around closing time. Once inside, the animal ransacked shelves, breaking approximately 14 bottles of premium spirits including scotch and whisky, causing an estimated $250 in damage. 'The raccoon had gone on a full-blown rampage, drinking everything,' said Animal Control Officer Samantha Martin, who responded to the scene. 'When we arrived, we found the suspect passed out next to the toilet, surrounded by broken glass and spilled alcohol.'
The Aftermath and Recovery
Store employees discovered the unconscious raccoon on Saturday morning, prompting a call to animal control. The raccoon was carefully secured and transported to the Hanover County Animal Protection and Shelter to 'sober up.' 'The raccoon was very intoxicated when we found it,' explained shelter spokesperson Jessica Miller. 'After a few hours of sleep, it woke up with what we can only assume was a massive hangover and some poor life choices to reflect on.' Remarkably, the animal showed no physical injuries beyond its apparent inebriation.
Release and Lessons Learned
After several hours of observation, the raccoon was deemed fit for release and returned to the wild. The shelter's Facebook post about the incident went viral, with officials humorously noting they hoped the animal 'learned that breaking and entering is not the answer.' The store was able to reopen after thorough cleanup, though employees remain vigilant about potential wildlife intrusions.
Raccoon Behavior and Urban Encounters
Raccoons, known scientifically as Procyon lotor, are highly intelligent, nocturnal omnivores native to North America. According to Wikipedia, these adaptable creatures have increasingly moved into urban areas, where their dexterous front paws and problem-solving abilities make them particularly adept at accessing human food sources. 'This incident highlights how wildlife adapts to urban environments,' noted wildlife biologist Dr. Michael Chen. 'Raccoons are incredibly resourceful, but encounters with alcohol can be dangerous for them, just as they are for humans.'
Broader Context and Similar Incidents
This isn't the first time animals have gotten into trouble with human substances. Earlier in 2025, an Ohio raccoon was found with a methamphetamine pipe in its mouth, highlighting the broader issue of wildlife interacting with human drugs and alcohol. The Virginia incident has sparked discussions about proper storage of potentially harmful substances and wildlife management in urban areas.
The story has resonated widely on social media, with many users humorously relating to the raccoon's post-bender condition. 'We've all been there after a night out,' one commenter wrote, while others praised the humane handling of the situation by animal control officers. Virginia ABC officials commended the professional response, noting that while unusual, such incidents require careful handling to ensure both human and animal safety.