A tiger killed a zoo worker at a British zoo on Friday. The grueling attack by a Sumatran tiger killed 24-year-old Sarah McClay at the South Lakes Wild Animal Park, according to reports.
Police said McClay's death could have been due to "human or technical factors," but are still investigating how the 24-year-old came into contact with the animal, the BBC noted.
The tiger that killed the zoo worker has not been put down and it is unknown if the zoo is considering taking further action. It is also unclear how McClay was attacked -- or what she was doing at the time of the attack (feeding the animal, cleaning the enclosure, etc.). If proper protocol was not followed, this tragic accident might have been preventable. The zoo has not released any further information to the public, however.
"The tiger is securely locked in its enclosure and there is no further risk to the public. Members of the public were not at any risk. The wildlife park has closed early and all visitors have left the park," a spokesperson from the park said.
Park owner David Gill said there was "no reason" for McClay to be in the tiger enclosure.
He asked for the public's support, understanding and prayers.
"The park is a very safe environment and never at any stage were any other public or staff in danger," Gill posted Saturday on the zoo's Facebook page. "We have been given the all clear by the authorities after initial investigations yesterday and we hope you will allow us all to work through this tragic event."
McClay's family released a statement in which they said that they were "very shocked and distressed" about her death. They too likely want answers as to how this happened. Naturally when dealing with "wild" animals this sort of thing is always a risk.
