In South Africa, a tiger attacked and killed a worker at the Seaview Predator Park on Wednesday afternoon.
In a statement, the park said the electric fencing in the enclosure housing Siberian tigers, Jasper and Jade was in the process of being repaired when Jasper jumped on the exterior fence and got out.
“The worker, David Solomon, was, unfortunately, in the passageway between enclosures walking towards the water supply taps when the incident occurred.”
It furthermore stated that David attempted to climb the fence of a different enclosure to get to safety and was pulled off the fence by Jasper, the tiger.
“We confirm that David obviously had bite marks but it would seem that Jasper broke David’s neck when he pulled David off the fence.”
According to the statement, Jasper then proceeded to jump the exterior fence of the next door enclosure which houses Siberian Tigers named Judah and Amber.
A fight ensued between Judah and Jasper and Judah, one of the tigers was killed.
“Jasper, being an entire male Siberian tiger, wanted the attention of Amber, an entire female Siberian Tiger.”
Management immediately closed the Park and assisted members of the public who were near the tiger enclosures to safely gather their belongings and exit the Park.
“Members of the public who were at the restaurant were kept there until it was safe for them to return to their vehicles and exit the Park.”
David Solomon had been at the Seaview Predator Park for about 15 years and knew each of the animals since they were cubs.
“We are all one big family and the loss of David has left every single one of us heartbroken and traumatised, specifically the staff members and volunteers who were present when the incident occurred.
“David’s presence, jokes, willingness to teach our young volunteers and overall bubbling personality is going to be missed so much and we send our heartfelt condolences to his family and close friends. May his dear soul rest in peace. “
According to the Park all the large tigers are safely contained in their enclosures and the electric fencing is fully functional.
