William Chapman, who was mauled to death by a tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster, apparently filmed the moment he approached the animal, footage posted online suggests. The 30-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene after emergency services were contacted shortly after 1.30pm on Saturday, October 10.
Investigation launched into fatal incident
On Monday, October 12, the City of Doncaster Council launched a health and safety investigation into the incident. The tourist attraction remained shut for a fourth day on Tuesday, October 13, while the circumstances surrounding the tragedy continue to be explored.
A short clip reported to have been taken by Mr Chapman, apparently posted on a now-deleted Instagram account, was filmed inside the tiger's enclosure. The 30st Amur tiger named Altai can be seen lying on top of a wooden platform, a few metres in front of the camera.
Witnesses describe the moments before the attack
According to the park's website, this sub-species is the "largest big cat in the world". In the audio, the person filming can be heard breathing heavily as distant voices shout "Oh my God" and "seriously".
A couple who watched the distressing incident unfold said Mr Chapman entered the enclosure from a walkway overlooking the animal after "pacing around" nearby and acting strangely. Others present at the scene described him as being in a "happy" mood before jumping into the enclosure.
Park confirms tiger will not be euthanised
In a statement posted to social media on Sunday, October 11, the wildlife park said "many, many people" had contacted them about Altai, and it 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 received specialist support.
Dan Swaine, executive director of place at City of Doncaster Council - which is responsible for licensing the park - 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," he added. "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."
The incident took place months after a three-year-old boy was seriously injured in a crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst, near Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire.
