Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster has announced it will reopen tomorrow (Friday) following the fatal incident involving a visitor on Saturday. The park has been closed since the tragic event at the weekend.
William Chapman, 24, died after he managed to gain entry to a tiger enclosure and was fatally attacked by the animal. The park confirmed in a fresh statement today that it will welcome back the public, including access to the 'Land of the Tiger' attraction.
Park asks for understanding as it reopens
The statement added: "As we welcome visitors back, we would ask everyone to be understanding and respectful towards our staff team, who have shown tremendous professionalism and dedication during an exceptionally difficult time."
It also said: "We are providing specialist trauma support and ongoing care for those affected."
Inquest hears details of the incident
An inquest heard today that the victim scaled two fences before entering the enclosure. William died following an encounter with a rare Amur Tiger called Altai.
Nicola Jane Mundy, Senior Coroner for South Yorkshire, formally opened proceedings at Doncaster Coroner's Court today (Oct 15) to determine the "broad circumstances" of Mr Chapman's death. Coroner's officer Mrs Caitlin Brookes told the court that Mr Chapman climbed two fences at approximately 13:13 before gaining access to the tiger enclosure.
She confirmed that both Mr Chapman - who was self-employed as an online trader - and the tiger "contacted multiple times", sustaining injuries which "led to his death".
Tiger's welfare confirmed
Yorkshire Wildlife Park has today reassured guests that Altai will not be euthanised following the incident. A spokesman added: "His ongoing welfare at YWP remains a priority of our experienced animal care team".
