Man killed after entering tiger enclosure at wildlife park

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 15:32 · Archive

William Chapman died after climbing into a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster on Saturday.

William Chapman, believed to be in his 20s, was killed on Saturday after entering a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster. He climbed down from a walkway into the enclosure at around 1.30pm. He was visiting the park alone and was pronounced dead at the scene. South Yorkshire Police confirmed his family was aware and being supported by specialist officers.

An eyewitness reported seeing Mr Chapman wearing headphones and 'pacing around' near the enclosure before he entered it. Some visitors reportedly tried to distract the tiger during the incident. The park was evacuated and closed following the incident.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park said the rare Amur tiger involved, named Altai, will not be euthanised and remains in its enclosure. The park offered its 'thoughts and heartfelt sympathies' to Mr Chapman's family. The City of Doncaster Council has launched a health and safety investigation into the incident, with a council spokesperson saying the investigation was 'in line with our statutory duties'. The park remains closed as investigations continue.

How it is being reported

• Name of man who was killed by tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park revealedA man who died after entering a tiger enclosure has been named as William Chapman.Bracknell News · 13 Oct, 15:04
• Name of man who was killed by tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park revealedA man who died after entering a tiger enclosure has been named as William Chapman.Reading Chronicle · 13 Oct, 15:04

In this story: William Chapman · Yorkshire Wildlife Park · Doncaster · South Yorkshire Police · Altai · City of Doncaster Council

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