A man died Saturday after entering the enclosure of an Amur tiger named Altai at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in northern England. Emergency services were called shortly after 1:30 p.m. local time (12:30 GMT) following reports of the man’s presence inside the enclosure. Despite the efforts of medical personnel on scene, he was pronounced dead immediately.

Authorities confirmed that the man’s family has been informed and is receiving specialist support. South Yorkshire Police issued a statement urging the public not to share distressing footage of the incident circulating online.

The tiger involved, Altai, is an endangered Amur tiger, also known as a Siberian tiger. Altai joined Yorkshire Wildlife Park in March 2025 after being transferred from Dyreparken Zoo in Norway, covering a journey of over 1,100 miles. The park described Altai as a large, calm animal who was well cared for by his previous keepers. Altai remains in good health and will not be euthanised following the incident, according to the park.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park, which opened in 2009, features a dedicated two-acre reserve called Land of the Tigers, opened in 2011, designed specifically for Amur tigers. The species is the largest big cat in the world and is classified as endangered, with an estimated 500 individuals remaining in the wild. The park is also home to another tigress named Tschuna, who has lived there since 2013.

Eyewitnesses reported that before entering the enclosure, the man appeared to be posing for photos with the tiger and was seen "dancing" while wearing AirPods. Following the attack, the park was evacuated and a black screen was set up around the enclosure as staff attempted to manage the situation. Reports indicate that zookeepers fired warning shots in an effort to stop the tiger.

The park remained closed on Sunday, allowing staff, many of whom were deeply affected by the incident, to receive specialist support. Officials emphasized that there is no ongoing risk to the public. Tickets for the park resumed sale for visits beginning Monday.

The incident has prompted an outpouring of concern from the public, with many people reaching out to the park to inquire about Altai’s condition. The park expressed gratitude for the public’s concern and reiterated its sympathies for the man’s family and loved ones.