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. The incident occurred at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster on Saturday, when a man named in reports as William Chapman entered the tiger enclosure.
Footage shows approach
A 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”.
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.
Investigation launched
City of Doncaster Council, which is responsible for licensing the park, said on Monday it had started a health and safety investigation. 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.”
Park remains closed
The park remained closed on Tuesday for a fourth day after the attack and will remain closed on Wednesday for a fifth day. 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.
