A first responder likened the scene to a grizzly bear attack while recounting the aftermath of the incident involving St. James Davis. Contrary to initial impressions, the brutal injuries inflicted on the former NASCAR driver were not by a 600lb bear but by two enraged chimpanzees that had escaped their enclosure.
During a visit to an animal sanctuary in California to celebrate Moe, a chimp he had raised from infancy, St. James and his wife LaDonna were viciously attacked by two younger male chimps, Buddy and Ollie. The attack unfolded as the couple, along with Moe, were about to enjoy a birthday cake inside the ape’s enclosure when the younger chimps suddenly appeared and launched the assault.
Despite St. James’ valiant attempts to shield his wife, the chimps overpowered them, causing severe injuries. The ordeal saw St. James sustaining extensive wounds, including the loss of an eye, severe facial disfigurement, and multiple limb injuries, as the chimps relentlessly mauled him for over five minutes.
Efforts to halt the attack, including the use of a water hose and firearms, proved insufficient until the older chimp was fatally shot. The younger chimp continued to attack St. James until it was also shot dead, finally ending the gruesome assault.
Following the harrowing incident, St. James endured a lengthy recovery process involving numerous surgeries and extensive physical reconstruction. The severe injuries left him with lasting impairments, including the loss of fingers and mobility, as he faced ongoing medical challenges and the prospect of further surgical procedures.
An investigation later revealed lapses in the sanctuary’s security that led to the chimps’ escape. The tragic event raised questions about the possible motives behind the attack, with experts speculating on factors such as jealousy, territorial behavior, or past trauma experienced by the chimpanzees.
The tragic episode marked a stark contrast to the enduring bond between St. James and Moe, a relationship that dated back to 1967 when St. James rescued the chimp in Africa. Despite the subsequent turmoil, including legal battles and Moe’s relocation to sanctuaries, the connection between St. James, LaDonna, and Moe endured until the fateful attack that forever altered their lives.
Ultimately, the aftermath of the attack left St. James with profound physical and emotional scars, underscoring the tragic consequences of the violent encounter with the chimpanzees. Despite the enduring impact of the incident, the memories of St. James’ remarkable bond with Moe remained a poignant reminder of the enduring power of compassion and connection in the face of adversity.
