(Image: Social Media)
THE first picture of the man killed in a tiger attack at Yorkshire Wildlife Park has emerged.
William Chapman, believed to be in his 20s, died after entering the tiger enclosure at the Doncaster attraction on Saturday.
He had been visiting the park alone, South Yorkshire Police confirmed. Officers said he was pronounced dead at the scene.
His family has been informed and is being supported by specialist officers, according to a force spokesperson.
The incident happened shortly after 1.30pm, after Mr Chapman climbed down from a walkway into the enclosure. It led to the evacuation and closure of the park.
Witnesses said he apparently filmed the moment he approached the animal. A short clip, posted on a now-deleted Instagram account, is reported to have been filmed inside the enclosure.
The footage shows a tiger lying on top of a wooden platform a few metres from the camera. The person filming appears to be breathing heavily, while distant voices can be heard shouting: “Oh my God” and “seriously”.
An eyewitness reported seeing Mr Chapman wearing headphones and “pacing around” near the enclosure before he entered it.
Onlookers tried to get him to turn back before he was mauled. Some visitors reportedly attempted to distract the tiger during the incident.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park said the Amur tiger involved, named Altai, was safe and well. It will not be put down or euthanised, and remains in its enclosure.
The park offered its “thoughts and heartfelt sympathies” to Mr Chapman’s family.
A health and safety investigation has been launched by City of Doncaster Council. A council spokesperson said the investigation was “in line with our statutory duties.”
Yorkshire Wildlife Park remains closed while investigations continue.
Dan Swaine, executive director of place at City of Doncaster Council, said: “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.”