Police have issued a new update after a man was killed by a tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park on Saturday, October 10. South Yorkshire Police said the unnamed victim was not believed to have been with anybody when he jumped into the enclosure.
A spokesperson said: "It is not believed that the man who died at the Yorkshire Wildlife Park was being accompanied by anybody." This comes as the City of Doncaster Council has also said it has launched a health and safety investigation into the man's death.
Council launches health and safety investigation
The Express reports Dan Swaine, executive director of place at City of Doncaster Council, said: "We are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred this weekend and our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with everyone involved, including the family and loved ones of the person who tragically lost their life, those that witnessed the incident and the staff involved at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, as well as the emergency services who provided a swift response."
Mr Swaine added: "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."
Park remains closed after incident
Emergency services were contacted shortly after 1.30pm on October 10 when the man entered the enclosure. He was pronounced dead at the scene, South Yorkshire Police said, adding that his family have been informed.
In a previous statement on social media, the wildlife park said "many, many people" had contacted them about Altai, the Amur tiger involved in the incident, and it confirmed he is "safe and well" and will not be euthanised. It added that members of park staff were "deeply affected" by the incident and receiving specialist support.
Councillor Steve Cox, who represents the Finningley ward covering the wildlife park, told the Press Association: "I really feel for the staff, they've got protocols they have to go through. It's really sad, but I'm sure everybody did what they could."
Doncaster's deputy civic mayor councillor Nick Allen, who represents a nearby ward, said: "We don't know all the circumstances yet and the speculation online is obviously upsetting and unneeded." He said he had been "really shocked about the tragic incident".
