A fatal tiger attack at a UK wildlife park has sparked international outrage after footage of the incident was shared by US President Donald Trump. The tragedy occurred at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster, where a 23-year-old man, William Chapman, was killed by a 200kg Amur tiger named Altai.
According to the report, Mr Chapman had entered the enclosure, reportedly listening to music on headphones, when the tiger’s instincts kicked in. Eyewitness Anthony Hunt, who was visiting the park with his girlfriend Scarlett, described the moment the predator’s eyes locked onto something in the enclosure.
Witness Accounts
Mr Hunt recalled that he and his girlfriend were taking photos of the big cat when they noticed a terrifying change in the animal’s behaviour and composure. “Its eyes locked on to something in the enclosure. We thought maybe he’s getting fed,” Mr Hunt said.
It was only when looking closely through the camera viewfinder that the horror of the situation became clear to the couple. “When Scarlett was taking photos, we suddenly saw in the camera lens that a guy had entered the enclosure,” Mr Hunt added.
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Investigation and Aftermath
Witnesses recalled seeing Mr Chapman bow down on all fours and begin praying toward the sky as onlookers shouted frantically for him to play dead. Mr Chapman reportedly did not appear to understand, telling the animal to “stop being naughty”. The tiger then launched the fatal attack.
The park remains closed while local authorities launch a health and safety investigation ahead of the opening of an inquest in Doncaster. Yorkshire Wildlife Park has confirmed that the tiger will not be euthanised.
The grief-stricken family of the victim has urged the public to stop sharing the footage of the attack, describing it as “deeply offensive media content” that is causing them severe distress at an “exceptionally vulnerable time”. Downing Street has called on the public to respect the family’s wishes.