A keeper was mauled to death by lions at Safari World zoo in Bangkok on Wednesday morning in front of horrified visitors.
The keeper was attacked from behind and mauled by a lion in the drive-through zone after he got out of his vehicle. Visitors in their cars watched in horror as several other lions rushed in and joined the attack.
The lions mauled the man for about 15 minutes before another keeper could reach him and pull him to safety. He was rushed to hospital where he died from his injuries.
Attapol Charoenchansa, director-general of the Department of Wildlife, said the attack reportedly happened while the lions were feeding. “It is assumed that one of them was not in a good mood and started the attack,” he said.
The victim was Jian Rangkharasamee, a 58-year-old supervisor at the zoo.
Ratanaporn Jitpakdee, 57-year-old wife of the late keeper, said she was shocked by the loss of her husband, who was the family breadwinner and loved his job very much.
She said her husband had cared for lions and tigers at the zoo for a long time. He had always taken precautions, had never been attacked by any animal there, she said.
Safari World Plc issued a statement extending its condolences to the family of the late employee and promised to take the best care of the family.
Visitors to the park are warned to always remain in their cars when in the drive-through zone.
