The City of Independence releases a statement on possible mountain lion sightings that have been reported in town.

After multiple social media posts about a possible sighting on a video doorbell camera, City officials have worked with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to conclude that the animal captured on video was not a mountain lion but likely a domesticated cat. Assistant City Manager David Cowan says after thorough investigation into the suspected mountain lion sighting, there appears to be no cause for alarm or concern.

Related questions also have been circulating about the location of the mountain lion at the Ralph Mitchell Zoo. Park & Zoo Director Scott Patton has confirmed that it is safe and secure in the zoo enclosure and has not left the zoo. Coincidentally, it is temporarily off public exhibit due to damage to the outdoor enclosure fencing caused by a fallen tree.