Police in Germany shot dead a tiger that escaped its enclosure and attacked a keeper at a private facility near Leipzig, in the eastern state of Saxony. The incident occurred on Sunday, prompting an emergency response from local authorities.
Attack and Response
The tiger, believed to be owned by Carmen Zander, known as Germany's 'Tiger Queen,' attacked a 72-year-old worker inside the enclosure. The victim sustained injuries and is in a stable condition in hospital. The tiger was shot by police approximately 300 metres from the facility after it had fled.
Owner's Background
Carmen Zander, a tiger tamer, has been banned from commercially exhibiting her animals since 2022. Authorities are now demanding improved living conditions for her tigers, citing concerns over safety and animal welfare.
Calls for Action
The mayor of Schkeuditz and animal rights group PETA have urged the removal of the tigers from the facility and called for stricter regulations on privately-owned exotic animals. The incident has reignited debate over the keeping of wild animals in captivity.
