A man has died in a horrific lioness attack after scaling a 20-foot wall and breaking into the animal's enclosure at a Brazilian zoo, in what authorities believe may have been a mental health-related incident.
Tragic Breach at Bica Zoo
The unidentified man died on Sunday after executing a complex entry into the Parque Arruda Câmara, commonly known as Bica, in João Pessoa, Brazil. The individual scaled the more than six-metre security wall and navigated through multiple security fences before reaching the lion enclosure.
Witnesses and officials reported that the man used a tree branch to climb down into the enclosure, with the lioness attacking immediately upon his feet touching the ground. The brutal incident prompted a massive emergency response, including military police who rushed to the scene.
Zoo Response and Investigation
Local outlet TV Cabo Branco reported that the unnamed man may have been suffering from mental health issues at the time of the incident. The zoo was immediately closed following the attack, with the Institute of Forensic Science of Paraíba (IPC) launching a full investigation.
In an official statement, zoo representatives expressed their condolences to the man's family and stated that the park "deeply regrets the incident." The spokesperson described it as "an extremely sad episode for everyone" and confirmed the park's commitment to transparency and safety protocols.
The statement continued: "As soon as the incident was reported, the park was immediately closed, following all safety protocols. Bica will remain closed to visitors until the conclusion of the investigations and official procedures, prioritizing transparency and commitment to the safety of our visitors, employees and animals."
Lioness Spared from Euthanasia
In a significant update, zoo authorities confirmed that the lioness, named Leona, would not be euthanised following the attack. Officials revealed that the animal had experienced a "high level of stress" due to the intrusion but was recovering well under veterinary care.
A spokesperson stated in a social media announcement: "Leona, the lioness at Arruda Câmara Park, is doing well and will continue to receive all necessary care. After the incident, she was immediately evaluated by the technical team and remains under continuous observation and monitoring."
The statement emphatically confirmed that "euthanasia was never considered" and described Leona as healthy without exhibiting aggressive behaviour outside the context of this incident. The zoo's protocol in such situations involves monitoring, behavioural assessment, and specialised care, which is currently being implemented by their team of veterinarians, handlers, and technicians.
The tragic incident has raised questions about zoo security measures and mental health support systems, though authorities have emphasised that the park follows rigorous technical standards and safety protocols.
