Tiger spared after killing visitor at Yorkshire park
William Chapman, 23, died after entering tiger enclosure; park reopens Friday, tiger will not be killed.
Chapman entered the Land of the Tiger attraction and approached Altai on Saturday afternoon in front of visitors. Witnesses said he appeared to move toward the tiger as if in a trance before it mauled him.
William Chapman's family revealed he had been struggling with mental illness. Yorkshire Wildlife Park shut down for police investigation but confirmed Thursday the park would reopen Friday.
The zoo said it will not euthanise Altai and his welfare remains a priority. Staff are receiving specialist trauma support.
- William Chapman, 23
- Visitor killed
- Saturday afternoon
- When incident occurred
- Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Land of the Tiger
- Location
- May Contain Nuts, True Stories
- Actor credits
Why it mattersThe decision shows how zoos balance visitor safety with animal welfare after tragic incidents, and highlights mental health factors in such cases.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect, but a significant international incident of interest to Australian wildlife and zoo visitors.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
