Family Pays Tribute to Man Killed in Tiger Attack

The family of William Chapman, 23, who died after entering a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in England, has paid tribute to him, describing him as “bright, warm and engaging” while asking for privacy as they grieve.

Family Speaks About His Struggles

In a statement released on Tuesday evening, Chapman’s family revealed that he had experienced significant mental health difficulties for several years and had been prescribed strong medication. They said the coroner would determine whether his condition played a role in his death. The family said they were devastated by the loss and urged the public to respect their privacy, adding that the circulation of deeply offensive media content had caused them further distress.

Investigation Underway

Chapman died on Saturday afternoon after entering the tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster. Emergency services were alerted shortly after 1:30 p.m., but he was pronounced dead at the scene. Doncaster Council has launched a health and safety investigation, while South Yorkshire Police confirmed that specialist officers are supporting the family. The park remains closed following the incident.

Former Child Actor Remembered

Chapman attended Jackie Palmer Stage School in High Wycombe, which paid tribute to his development as a person and performer. The school said he would be remembered fondly by those who knew him. As a child, he appeared in the ITV production May Contain Nuts alongside Shirley Henderson and Darren Boyd. He also portrayed a young Edward Jenner in the BBC series True Stories.

Park Confirms Tiger Will Remain

Footage of the incident has circulated widely on social media. An eyewitness described seeing Chapman wearing headphones and pacing near the enclosure before entering it. Yorkshire Wildlife Park said its thoughts were with Chapman’s family and confirmed that Altai, the rare Amur tiger involved, would remain in the enclosure and would not be euthanised.