A 24-year-old man died after being mauled by a Siberian tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster on Saturday, after he jumped into the animal’s enclosure. The victim, identified as former child actor William Chapman, had posted videos and photos to his social media accounts shortly before the incident, including footage showing himself walking towards the tiger, named Altai.

Chapman, who attended the Jackie Palmer Stage School and appeared in television productions such as the ITV comedy "May Contain Nuts" and the BBC series "True Stories," had not been active in the acting industry for several years prior to his death. Earlier on the day of the incident, he posted a photo holding a Bible and a crossbow, with a bolt between his teeth.

Witnesses at the park described Chapman as acting erratically throughout the day. He was seen dancing to music on a walkway overlooking the tiger enclosure and asked other visitors to take pictures of him with the tiger in the background. Some described his behaviour as "bizarre" and "like a performance." One visitor recounted that Chapman got down on all fours and appeared to be praying or communicating with the tiger before climbing over the barrier and jumping into the enclosure, despite a woman with two children trying to stop him.

Footage recorded by bystanders captured Chapman repeatedly telling the tiger to “stop” and “no,” while the animal pawed and bit him. Emergency services, including paramedics and a helicopter, arrived at the scene, but Chapman was pronounced dead at the park. Zookeepers attempted to drive the tiger off by firing loud acoustic warning shots, and officials confirmed that Altai remained unharmed and would not be euthanised.

South Yorkshire Police described Chapman as vulnerable and noted that he appeared detached from reality during the incident. His family released a statement indicating that Chapman suffered from significant mental health issues and was prescribed medication. They expressed hope that authorities would investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

The incident has prompted City of Doncaster Council, the wildlife park’s licensing authority, to launch a health and safety investigation. The zoo was closed for several days following the event, and staff were offered specialist support due to the traumatic nature of the experience. South Yorkshire Police have submitted a file to Doncaster Coroner’s Court as part of ongoing inquiries.