The City of Doncaster Council has launched a health and safety investigation after a man was mauled to death by a tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park. The authority said it is "deeply saddened" by the incident, which occurred on October 10.
Emergency services were contacted after 1.30pm on October 10 when the man entered the enclosure. He was pronounced dead at the scene. South Yorkshire Police said the victim was not believed to have been accompanied by anyone, and his family has been informed.
Council statement and investigation
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."
Swaine confirmed: "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."
He added: "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."
Local councillors react
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".
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."
Park confirms tiger's status
The wildlife park confirmed on social media that Altai, the Amur Tiger involved in the incident, is "safe and well" and will not be euthanised. It added that members of park staff were "deeply affected" by the incident and are receiving specialist support.
