Yorkshire Wildlife Park has confirmed what will happen to a tiger involved in the tragic death of a young man who entered its enclosure over the weekend.
The man, believed to be in his 20s, died on Saturday, October 10, after being attacked by a Siberian tiger at the popular attraction in Doncaster.
The incident prompted a major emergency response, with visitors evacuated and police launching an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Now, as the first photographs of the animal circulate, the wildlife park has addressed growing concerns about its future.
Wildlife park confirms tiger's fate
In a statement released on Sunday, October 11, Yorkshire Wildlife Park confirmed that the tiger, named Altai, would not be euthanised following the fatal incident.
Management reassured concerned members of the public that the animal was safe and unharmed.
The park explained that it had received numerous messages asking about Altai's welfare since news of the tragedy emerged.
It also expressed sympathy for the victim's family and loved ones, acknowledging the devastating impact of the incident.
The attraction will remain closed while employees affected by the events receive specialist support.
What do we know about Altai?
Altai is an Amur tiger, also commonly known as a Siberian tiger, one of the largest big cat species in the world.
He arrived at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in March 2025 after previously living at Dyreparken, a wildlife attraction in Norway.
At the time of his arrival, the park's Director of Animals, Charlotte MacDonald, praised his temperament and described him as a calm and receptive animal.
Keepers also highlighted his enjoyment of training sessions, food and playing in water.
Altai was introduced to the park's Land of the Tigers attraction, which allows visitors to observe the animals from a raised walkway overlooking their habitat.
Witnesses describe moments before tragedy
Emergency services were called shortly after 1.30pm on Saturday following reports that a man had entered the tiger enclosure.
Witnesses claimed the man appeared agitated before climbing over a barrier and entering the habitat.
Footage circulating online reportedly captured him asking another visitor to take photographs of him near the tiger enclosure shortly before the incident.
One witness also claimed he appeared to be dancing while holding his phone and wearing earphones before entering the restricted area.
These accounts have not been independently established by police.
Once inside, the man was attacked by the tiger and suffered fatal injuries.
Despite emergency services attending the scene, he was pronounced dead.
Investigation continues following fatal attack
South Yorkshire Police confirmed that the man's family had been informed and was receiving support from specialist officers.
Authorities previously reassured the public that the tiger had not been injured and that there was no wider risk to visitors.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park was evacuated immediately following the incident, with management activating its emergency procedures.
Questions remain about how the man accessed the enclosure and the circumstances leading up to the attack.
For now, the park's priority remains supporting those affected by the tragedy while cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
