Inquest Opens into Fatal Tiger Attack at Yorkshire Wildlife Park
William Chapman, 24, died from multiple traumatic injuries; park reopens as investigations continue.
Carla Rooney
An inquest has opened into the death of William Chapman, killed by a tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park reopens six days after a fatal tiger attack. The park asks visitors for "understanding and respectful towards our staff team, who have shown tremendous professionalism and dedication during an exceptionally difficult time."
Altai, the tiger involved, remains safe and well; authorities will not euthanise the animal. Altai arrived at the park in 2025 from a Norwegian zoo, part of a global conservation project.
Bright, warm and engaging.
South Yorkshire Police are investigating the incident. The City of Doncaster Council also conducts a health and safety investigation into the park's licensing, sharing its findings with the coroner.
Mr. Chapman received adult mental health services in Doncaster. Doncaster Coroner's Court states Mr. Chapman had a history of mental illness and a schizophrenia diagnosis, suffering previous bouts of psychosis.
His family raised concerns about his contact with mental health services. They described William Chapman as 'bright, warm and engaging'.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park provides specialist trauma support for affected staff. "We are providing specialist trauma support and ongoing care for those affected," the park stated.
The inquest was adjourned until March 18, 2027. Yorkshire Wildlife Park stated, "As inquiries remain ongoing, it would be inappropriate for us to comment further on circumstances at this time."