A man who died after being attacked by a tiger at a wildlife park apparently filmed the moment he approached the animal, according to footage posted in reports.
A health and safety investigation has been launched into the incident at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster, where a man named in reports as William Chapman was killed after entering the tiger enclosure on Saturday.
Footage posted on social media
The short clip, apparently posted on a now-deleted Instagram account, was filmed inside the tiger’s enclosure. The large animal can be seen lying on top of a wooden platform, a few metres in front of the camera. In the audio, the person filming can be heard breathing heavily as distant voices shout “Oh my God” and “seriously”.
The park remained closed on Tuesday for a fourth day after the attack. Flowers were left at the entrance to the park.
Investigation underway
Emergency services were contacted shortly after 1.30pm on October 10 when Mr Chapman, 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.
Council statement
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 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.
