Man killed after entering tiger enclosure at Yorkshire zoo

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 16:32 · Archive

William Chapman, believed to be in his early 20s, died after entering a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster on Saturday.

William Chapman, believed to be in his early 20s, was killed on Saturday afternoon after entering a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster and being attacked by Altai, a five-year-old Amur tiger. Eyewitnesses reported seeing him pacing around and wearing headphones before he climbed down from a viewing platform into the enclosure shortly after 1.30pm.

Video footage apparently filmed by Mr Chapman before the attack showed him walking towards the tiger, which rested on a wooden platform. Onlookers could be heard urging him to get out. One witness reported seeing blood and the tiger dragging the man by his neck. A woman attempted to restrain Mr Chapman moments before he entered the enclosure, but he broke away. One eyewitness told The Telegraph: 'He overpowered her and jumped off.'

Park rangers discharged warning shots in an attempt to frighten the tiger away. The animal withdrew and was contained. Emergency personnel arrived shortly after 1.30pm but Mr Chapman was pronounced dead at the scene. South Yorkshire Police said his family was aware and being supported by specialist officers. The park was evacuated and remains closed as investigations continue. Yorkshire Wildlife Park confirmed the tiger will not be euthanised. The City of Doncaster Council has launched a health and safety investigation.

How it is being reported

• Man mauled to death in tiger enclosure named and pictured for first timeWilliam Chapman was killed by a Amur tiger at the Yorkshire Wildlife Park on Saturday afternoonEvening Standard · 13 Oct, 16:14
• Man killed by tiger at Yorkshire zoo named and pictured for first timeThe man who died following a tiger incident at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster has been named as William Chapman, believed to have been in his early 20sMyLondon · 13 Oct, 14:00

In this story: William Chapman · Altai · Yorkshire Wildlife Park · Doncaster · South Yorkshire

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