South Yorkshire Police have issued two requests to the public after "distressing" footage emerged of a man being mauled by a tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park. Videos on social media appear to show a man in the enclosure being pawed at and grappled by the tiger, named Altai.
In another clip, the voice of the as-yet-unidentified man can apparently be heard asking people to take a photo of him with the tiger before the incident. As well as urging people not to share the footage, the force also told the public not to speculate on why the man may have entered the enclosure on Saturday.
Police update on victim
In an update, the force said it is believed the unnamed man was at the zoo alone. Officers added they will not be naming him at the request of his family. Emergency services were contacted shortly after 1.30pm on October 10, when the man entered the enclosure. He was pronounced dead at the scene, South Yorkshire Police said, adding that his family have been informed.
The park remains closed for a second day following the incident.
Park confirms tiger safe
In a previous statement on social media, the wildlife park said "many, many people" had contacted them about Altai, the Amur tiger involved, and confirmed he 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.
The council responsible for licensing the wildlife park has also launched a health and safety investigation into the incident.
Council investigation launched
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."
He added: "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."
Swaine concluded: "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."
