Yorkshire Wildlife Park reveals fate of tiger after man killed at zoo
Altai the tiger is ‘safe and well’ after the tragedy 🚨
A tiger who was involved in a tragic incident at a Yorkshire zoo will not be euthanised.
The animal, who is called Altai, is said to be “safe and well” following the accident at Yorkshire Wildlife Park on Saturday (October 10).
Police have confirmed that a man has died after entering the tiger enclosure at the zoo near Doncaster yesterday.
SWNS spoke to visitor Marie Miller, who said she had seen the young man entering the enclosure shortly before tragedy struck.
She claimed he was “happily enjoying seeing the tiger” and asked another visitor to take a photo of him with the cat in the background.
Marie added: “20 minutes before today’s tragic incident at Yorkshire Wildlife Park this tiger was sat in the sunshine. The man who I saw on the bridge with his EarPods in dancing was happily enjoying seeing the tiger.
“He obviously wasn’t with anyone and he asked a total stranger to take a picture of him with the tiger in the background. Probably the last photo on his phone.
“I’m not sure if he was with a carer or family member but I honestly do think he just wanted to play with the tiger.
She continued: “Tragic for the family. Tragic for the staff who were brilliant but in shock. Thankfully the tiger survived.”
In an update on its social media page on Sunday (October 11) morning, Yorkshire Wildlife Park wrote: “We would like to thank everyone who has expressed their concern following yesterday’s tragic incident.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies remain with the family and loved ones of the man who sadly lost his life. The park will be closed today while the staff team who were deeply affected by events receive specialist support.
“Many, many people have contacted us about Altai, the tiger. We can reassure everyone that he is safe and well and will not be euthanised as a result of this incident.”
In a statement last night, a South Yorkshire police spokesperson said: “At 1.35pm today (Saturday October 10) we received reports of a man entering a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park.
“The tiger subsequently attacked the man, resulting in serious injury.
“Emergency services attended and sadly, despite the best efforts of medical personnel, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
“The man’s family is aware and is being supported by specialist officers. Our thoughts are with them at this distressing time.
“Regarding rumours surrounding the condition of the tiger, the animal was uninjured and remained in the enclosure following the incident and there is no wider risk to the public.”
A Yorkshire Ambulance Service spokesperson said two land ambulances, Yorkshire Air Ambulance and a doctor attended the scene.