The family of a man who died after being attacked by a tiger at a wildlife park on Saturday has paid tribute, describing him as "a bright, warm and engaging young man" who "suffered from significant mental illness".
William Chapman entered the Land of the Tigers exhibit at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster, where he was mauled by Altai, a five-year-old Amur tiger. He posted footage on his Instagram account minutes before the attack showing him approaching the animal.
Family Statement and Witness Account
His family stated that he had experienced mental health difficulties for numerous years and that it was for the coroner to determine whether his mental condition contributed to his death. The family's statement read: "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 is struggling to come to terms with what has happened. The family are hopeful that the relevant authorities will do their utmost to get to the bottom of why our amazing son did what he did."
Anthony Hunt and his girlfriend, Scarlet Hogan, who were visiting the park on Saturday, told The Telegraph that a woman "desperately tried to pull back" the victim as he tried to jump into the compound. Ms Hogan said: "The man started praying to the tiger, bowing down to it – the tiger looked a bit confused. Up until he got attacked, it was like he was in a trance, not in reality at all."
Investigation and Aftermath
City of Doncaster Council has initiated a health and safety inquiry into William's death. The attraction was cleared following the incident and remained shut for three days. Mr Chapman was described as vulnerable by the police.
Footage reportedly recorded by him inside the enclosure shows him approaching Altai as the animal sits on a wooden platform. Emergency services rushed to the wildlife park shortly after 1.30pm, but Mr Chapman was pronounced dead at the scene.
