Louisville, Kentucky – A deer wandered into the Chestnut Street Family YMCA in the Russell neighborhood on Tuesday morning. The unexpected visitor entered the lobby, surprising staff and members.

YMCA spokesperson Blair Downs said the incident occurred amid historic Ohio River flooding. Staff quickly contacted Louisville Metro Police for help with the four-legged intruder.

An officer arrived promptly and safely guided the deer out of the building. No injuries were reported during the rescue, Downs confirmed.

The YMCA shared a lighthearted video of the deer on Facebook. The post jokingly noted that “everyone wants to join the Y — even our four-legged friends.”

Louisville Metro Police also posted bodycam footage of the escort on social media Thursday. They noted an increase in deer sightings in urban areas, likely due to floodwaters displacing wildlife.

The flooding has affected several Louisville communities in recent days. The rising Ohio River likely pushed the deer out of its usual habitat.

Downs expressed gratitude for the quick response from local authorities. “We’re relieved no one — human or animal — was harmed,” she said.

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