South Yorkshire Police have confirmed that the man who died after entering the tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park on Saturday was not accompanied by anyone. The victim, who has not been named, entered the enclosure shortly after 1.30pm on October 10 and was pronounced dead at the scene. His family have been informed.
A police spokesman said on Monday: "It is not believed that the man who died at the Yorkshire Wildlife Park was being accompanied by anybody." The park remains closed for a second day as investigations continue.
Council launches health and safety investigation
City of Doncaster Council has also launched a health and safety investigation into the man's death, in line with its statutory duties as the relevant licensing authority for the park. Dan Swaine, executive director of Place at City of Doncaster Council, said: "We are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred this weekend and our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with everyone involved, including the family and loved ones of the person who tragically lost their life, those that witnessed the incident and the staff involved at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, as well as the emergency services who provided a swift response."
Swaine added: "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. 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."
Park confirms tiger is safe and will not be euthanised
In a previous statement on social media, the wildlife park said "many, many people" had contacted them about Altai, the Amur tiger involved in the incident, and it confirmed he is "safe and well" and will not be euthanised. The park added that members of staff were "deeply affected" by the incident and are receiving specialist support.
Councillor Steve Cox, who represents the Finningley ward covering the wildlife park, told the Press Association: "I really feel for the staff, they've got protocols they have to go through. It's really sad, but I'm sure everybody did what they could."
Community reaction and ongoing support
Doncaster's deputy civic mayor, councillor Nick Allen, who represents a nearby ward, said: "We don't know all the circumstances yet and the speculation online is obviously upsetting and unneeded." He said he had been "really shocked about the tragic incident".
Emergency services were contacted shortly after 1.30pm on October 10 when the man entered the enclosure. The park remains closed as the police and council investigations continue, and multiple agencies, including health agencies, are working together in response to the incident.
