Man Killed in Tiger Attack Named as William Chapman

A man who died after entering a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park has been identified as William Chapman, as police and safety investigators examine the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.

Police Investigate Fatal Attack

Chapman entered the enclosure at the wildlife park near Doncaster shortly after 13:30 BST on Saturday and was pronounced dead at the scene, South Yorkshire Police said. Police confirmed he had been visiting the park alone, while specialist officers are supporting his family.

Eyewitnesses Describe Incident

Witness Ella Ford said she saw Chapman pacing near the enclosure while wearing headphones before climbing over the barriers and entering the area where the tiger was resting. She said the animal grabbed him and he shouted for help. Visitors were evacuated from the area, and the park was subsequently closed as investigations continued.

Park Remains Closed

Yorkshire Wildlife Park expressed sympathy for Chapman’s family and confirmed that the Amur tiger, named Altai, remained in its enclosure and would not be euthanised. Doncaster Council has also launched a health and safety investigation into the death.

Calls for Enclosure Safety Review

The Born Free Foundation, which campaigns to phase out zoos, called for an urgent review of how Chapman was able to enter the enclosure and what happened afterwards. Dr Campbell Murn, a former member of the government’s zoo expert committee, said that even with security measures in place, determined individuals could sometimes gain access to restricted areas.

Witnesses Recall Evacuation

Another visitor, Karmelle Pelham, said staff instructed her family to leave the park during the incident. She recalled hearing sounds resembling gunshots and seeing an air ambulance circling overhead. Pelham praised staff for organising the evacuation.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Chapman’s death. The park remains closed while inquiries are ongoing.