Drunk Raccoon Found Passed Out in Liquor Store Bathroom After Overnight Break-In

A raccoon in Virginia has become an unlikely internet celebrity after a bizarre overnight break-in at a liquor store ended with the animal passed out in a bathroom surrounded by broken bottles. The strange incident, which happened in Ashland, Virginia, has quickly turned into one of the most talked-about funny animal news stories of the year.

Raccoon Breaks Into Virginia Liquor Store

The incident occurred after hours when the raccoon somehow gained access to a local liquor store, reportedly entering through the ceiling. Once inside, the animal knocked over shelves, shattered bottles, and created a scene that looked more like the aftermath of a wild party than a routine break-in.

When employees arrived the next morning, they discovered significant damage across the store. Bottles were broken, liquid covered the floor, and the source of the chaos was found in an unexpected place. The raccoon was discovered asleep on the bathroom floor next to a toilet.

Animal Control Responds to Unusual Call

Local animal control officers were called to handle the situation. They safely removed the raccoon, which appeared disoriented but unharmed. Officials later said the animal was allowed time to recover before being released back into the wild.

Authorities confirmed that no charges were filed, at least not against the raccoon. The store sustained damage, but no humans were injured during the incident.

A Possible Crime Spree Before the Booze

According to local reports, this may not have been the raccoon’s first stop of the night. Officials believe the animal may have broken into other nearby buildings before reaching the liquor store. Some reports suggest it entered additional businesses, including a martial arts studio, likely searching for food before discovering the liquor store.

This detail only added to the story’s viral appeal, with many people joking that the raccoon had planned an entire night out.

Internet Reacts to Viral Raccoon Story

The story quickly spread across social media platforms, where users dubbed the raccoon names like “Trash Panda” and “The Party Animal of Virginia.” Memes, jokes, and fan art followed, turning the raccoon into a symbol of chaotic curiosity.

The Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority VABCA even leaned into the humor, sharing raccoon-themed cocktail names online as a lighthearted response. Local businesses and animal welfare groups also capitalized on the attention, selling merchandise inspired by the incident and raising money for animal shelters.

Why People Love Weird Animal News

Stories like this resonate because they mix harmless mischief with humor and surprise. A raccoon breaking into a liquor store and falling asleep in the bathroom feels almost too absurd to be real, which makes it perfect for viral sharing.

Animal experts note that raccoons are highly intelligent and naturally curious, especially when searching for food. While alcohol is obviously not good for wildlife, officials emphasized that the raccoon recovered safely and suffered no lasting harm.

A Harmless Headline With a Happy Ending

Despite the damage left behind, the story ends on a positive note. The raccoon was safely released, the store was repaired, and the internet gained another unforgettable headline.

For many readers, this drunk raccoon incident stands out as one of the funniest animal news stories in recent memory. It is a reminder that sometimes the weirdest news stories come not from humans, but from the wild neighbors living just outside our doors.