Yorkshire Wildlife Park will reopen on Saturday while an inquest examines the death of 24-year-old William Chapman, who was fatally mauled by a tiger at the attraction near Doncaster.
Chapman was killed by Altai after entering the Land of the Tiger enclosure on October 10. He died at the scene, prompting the immediate evacuation and closure of the park.
An inquest at Doncaster Coroner’s Court began on Thursday, where senior coroner Nicola Mundy outlined the injuries sustained in the fatal tiger attack.
“He was approached by the tiger and the ensuing physical contact between the tiger and Chapman led to him sustaining multiple traumatic injuries which rapidly led to his death,” Ms Mundy told the court.
The hearing also heard that Chapman had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and had previously experienced bouts of psychosis, resulting in support from adult mental health services.
However, he was described as “highly functioning and independent with no care requirements”.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park said the site, including Land of the Tiger, would reopen following engagement with the relevant authorities. The park said visitor, staff and animal safety remained its “highest priority”.
Altai is “safe and well and will not be euthanised as a result of this incident”, the wildlife park said.
In a statement, the park expressed its “heartfelt sympathies” to Chapman’s family, friends and loved ones and said it was continuing to assist South Yorkshire Police and other relevant agencies with their enquiries.
It added that specialist trauma support and ongoing care were being provided to those affected, and asked visitors to be understanding and respectful towards staff when the park reopens.
