Tiger that killed a man in Doncaster will not be put down
A tiger named Altai attacked a man who entered its enclosure at a wildlife park near Doncaster, killing him, and officials say the animal will remain alive.
Yorkshire Police received a report that a man had entered the tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster and was attacked by the resident tiger, Altai, resulting in his death. The police confirmed the fatality and informed the victim's family. A police spokesperson indicated that Altai was not injured and did not present an ongoing danger to the public, allowing the animal to stay in its enclosure.
The park announced it would remain closed for the rest of the weekend following the incident. In a statement, Yorkshire Wildlife Park assured the public that Altai is safe, healthy, and will not be euthanized because of the attack. Altai was born at the Kristiansand zoo in 2022 and transferred to the Yorkshire facility in 2025 as part of the European Endangered Species Programme, where he was intended to breed with a female tiger already on site.
Why it matters
The case raises questions about zoo safety, animal welfare, and how dangerous wildlife are managed after fatal incidents.
How this story developed
- Oct 10 Man attacked by tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, animal later shot by staff
- Oct 10 Officials clarified that the tiger was not injured.
- Oct 11 The tiger involved was identified as Altai.
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