In brief
A zoo worker identified as Uriel Nuri has died after being mauled by a tiger that escaped its enclosure at the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo during a visitor tour. The zoo is currently collaborating with local authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
According to reports, Mr. Nuri, who was 36 years old and led the carnivores team, was attacked on Friday morning while preparing the tigers for an enrichment activity. The zoo confirmed that the tiger escaped into the inner courtyard during this routine task, but emphasized that no visitors were harmed as they were safely behind protective glass. Nuri was quickly transported to Hadassah University Hospital-Ein Kerem but succumbed to severe injuries despite resuscitation attempts. In light of this incident, the zoo has announced its closure as a precautionary measure and is looking into the possibility of a loose cage door as the cause of the tiger's escape. This tragic event has deeply impacted the zoo staff, who expressed profound sorrow for Nuri’s family during this difficult time. The zoo, which houses a variety of species, including the endangered Sumatran tiger, has faced previous safety incidents, notably the shooting of a crocodile that bit a worker in the past.
