William Chapman Named as Man Killed in Yorkshire Wildlife Park Tiger Incident

The man who died after being attacked by a tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park has been identified as William Chapman, with images of him also released. Photographs on his social media account show him holding a Bible and a crossbow, wearing what seems to be the same clothing he had on when he went into the tiger enclosure at the park. The image, posted on the day of the fatal incident, shows him with a crossbow bolt clenched between his teeth. He also shared a post on Instagram shortly before his death. The video recorded him as he moved slowly toward the 30-stone tiger, named Altai, which was lying on an elevated wooden platform. In the footage, the man’s breathing is audible and people can be heard screaming in the background. He was quickly attacked by the tiger and was later declared dead at the scene. Police confirmed that he had gone to the park by himself. According to witnesses, he seemed to “bow down” to the tiger and was said to have been “dancing” in an effort to “hype” himself up before he entered the area. Yorkshire Wildlife Park was still closed as of today, Tuesday, October 13. Doncaster Council, which licenses the Doncaster wildlife park, said it has opened a health and safety investigation into Saturday's incident. Dan Swaine, executive director of place at City of Doncaster Council, said: “As the relevant licensing authority for the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, I can confirm that, in line with our statutory duties, the council has launched a health and safety investigation. “We are also working with multiple agencies, including the police and health agencies, and are supporting the Yorkshire Wildlife Park in response to the incident. “At this time, we won’t be commenting further on the individual or the investigation and we ask that the privacy of those involved is respected at this difficult time.” Mr Swaine also said: “We are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred this weekend and our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with everyone involved, including the family and loved ones of the person who tragically lost their life, those that witnessed the incident and the staff involved at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, as well as the emergency services who provided a swift response.”