Yorkshire Wildlife Park confirms major decision four days after fatal tiger attack
The wildlife park has previously confirmed that the tiger will not be euthanised
A zoo in Yorkshire is set to remain closed for a fourth day following a tragic tiger attack over the weekend.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park, which is near Doncaster in the south of the county, is keeping its doors shut again on Tuesday (October 13). It comes after a man died after entering the tiger enclosure on Saturday (October 10).
A health and safety investigation has been launched into the incident. Meanwhile, the zoo had previously confirmed that the animal involved, named Altai, would not be euthanised following the fatal attack.
The park’s website said that it would remain closed on Tuesday.
Emergency services were contacted shortly after 1.30pm on October 10 when the man, who police said was visiting the park alone, entered the enclosure.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
City of Doncaster Council, which is responsible for licensing the park, said on Monday it had started a health and safety investigation.
Dan Swaine, executive director of place at City of Doncaster Council, said: “As the relevant licensing authority for the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, I can confirm that, in line with our statutory duties, the council has launched a health and safety investigation.
“We are also working with multiple agencies, including the police and health agencies, and are supporting the Yorkshire Wildlife Park in response to the incident.
“At this time, we won’t be commenting further on the individual or the investigation and we ask that the privacy of those involved is respected at this difficult time.”
In a previous update, Yorkshire Wildlife Park posted on social media: “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 over the weekend, 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.”