Family of tiger attack victim William Chapman pay tribute to 'bright' son
Family pay tribute to tiger attack victim William Chapman

The family of a man who was mauled to death by a tiger after he entered its enclosure at a wildlife park have described him as "bright" and "dearly loved".

William Chapman, who was in his mid-20s, entered the pen at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster on Saturday. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

His family have released a statement which says William suffered from "significant mental illness" over a number of years and was given "strong medication".

Family's tribute

The statement continued: "William was a bright, warm and engaging young man whom his family dearly loved - and William loved them back.

"The family are utterly devastated by their loss and are struggling to come to terms with what has happened.

"The family are hopeful that the relevant authorities will do their upmost to get to the bottom of why our amazing son did what he did."

Investigation launched

City of Doncaster Council has launched a health and safety investigation into Chapman's death and the park remains closed.

The coroner will decide whether William's mental illness played a part in his death.