news 13 October 2026 Nile Post

Man killed by tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park identified as William Chapman

The individual who tragically lost his life after entering a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park has been identified as William Chapman. The incident led to the park's evacuation and ongoing investigations. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/377961/man-killed-in-tiger-attack-identified-as-william-chapman

William Chapman, a man in his 20s, has been identified as the victim of a fatal tiger attack at Yorkshire Wildlife Park. The tragic event unfolded on Saturday afternoon when Chapman entered the enclosure of an Amur tiger named Altai.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing Chapman, wearing headphones, pacing near the enclosure before he climbed over barriers and entered the restricted area. Despite attempts by onlookers to distract the animal, Chapman was attacked and pronounced dead at the scene by emergency services.

South Yorkshire Police confirmed that Chapman was visiting the park alone and that his family is being supported by specialist officers. The park was evacuated following the incident and remains closed as investigations by the police and the City of Doncaster Council’s health and safety department are underway.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park expressed their condolences to Chapman’s family. They also confirmed that the tiger, Altai, would not be euthanized and remains in its enclosure. Wildlife organizations have called for an urgent review into how the breach occurred.

Experts noted that while security is robust, determined individuals can sometimes find ways to bypass it. The incident has raised questions about zoo safety protocols and visitor behavior. Park staff have been commended for their swift response in managing the evacuation and ensuring public safety after the harrowing event.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/377961/man-killed-in-tiger-attack-identified-as-william-chapman