An intoxicated woman who broke into Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Neb., on Sunday to pet a tiger was bitten when she tried to pet it in its cage, police said.
The woman, Jacqueline Eide, 33, was hospitalized at Creighton University Medical Center after being bitten on the left hand, reported the Omaha World Herald. Police reportedly didn't know about the incident until they were notified by the hospital.
Eide was driven to the hospital by a friend, where she "was aggressive toward staff and showed signs of intoxication of alcohol and/or drugs," a police statement said, according to Reuters.
Police cited Eide on suspicion on criminal trespass.
Officials at the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium believe Eide was bitten by Mai, the zoo's 18-year-old Malayan tiger. Zoo Executive Director Dennis Pate said additional cameras were being installed to monitor the zoo's grounds and gates. He also noted the facility already has security staff on duty around the clock, as well as security cameras, path lighting and computer-controlled locks to track exit and entry.
Omaha Police spokesman James Shade said zoo officials have launched an investigation to determine how Eide managed to sneak in and whether she received any assistance when she did so, according to FOX News.
A police spokesman was not available to say if Eide would be charged. A hospital spokesman declined to reveal Eide's condition.
