An animal handler died after one of the elephants he looked after accidentally hit him with her trunk.
Joaquin Gutierrez Arnaiz hit his head on iron bars which formed part of the animal’s security enclosure after being whacked by the large mammal, who was with her calf.
The 44-year-old was rushed to Marques de Valdecilla University Hospital after being assisted by two colleagues, but died around three hours after being struck just after 11am on Tuesday.
Police have launched an investigation into the incident, which occurred at Cabarceno Natural Park, a zoo near Santander, Spain.
The death has been described as the “first fatal accident” of its kind in the park’s 30-year history.
Francisco Javier Lopez Marcano, regional tourism and industry councillor, paid tribute to Joaquin, who started working at Cabarceno in 2002.
“We are deeply shocked," Francisco said.
"The loss of such a young and popular person has caused great pain.
“He was a great lover of elephants and his work.”
Cantabrian president Miguel Angel Revilla said: “Nothing like this had ever happened.
"Joaquin was an extraordinary person. Rest in peace.”
Friends and colleagues are due to pay tribute to Joaquin in a midday ceremony at the park.
Well-wisher Mery Bravo added: “Rest in peace, What a tragedy.
“However experienced you are you can never lower your guard.
"Animals react out of fear or to protect their young. My condolences to Joaquin’s family.”
Alberto Puche Hernandez said: “Animals are unpredictable. I’m sure Joaquin enjoyed looking after them.
"This is a real tragedy. My sincerest condolences to his family.”
Cabarceno Natural Park is located in a former open-pit iron mine.
It is home to almost 120 animal species including wolves, tigers, lions and jaguars from five continents living in semi-captive conditions, including large enclosures where one or more species co-exist.
Last September a female keeper was attacked by a 31-stone gorilla called Malabo at Madrid Zoo Aquarium.
The 46-year-old suffered a head injury, chest trauma with multiple fractures and and two broken arms.
