Man killed by tiger climbed two fences before suffering multiple injuries, inquest hears
William Chapman, 24, died after entering a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster on Saturday. An inquest heard that he climbed two fences before the tiger approached him; the case raises questions about his family’s concerns over his contact with mental health services.
The inquest was told Chapman had schizophrenia and a history of psychosis, but was described as independent and without care requirements. His family had raised concerns, and Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Trust has launched an investigation. The park was evacuated and remains closed; the inquest was adjourned until 18 March 2027.
- William Chapman died after entering a tiger enclosure.
- He climbed two fences before the encounter.
- The inquest resumes in March 2027.
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An inquest is a formal hearing that examines how someone died. It can hear evidence from witnesses and consider the circumstances, but it does not decide whether anyone is criminally responsible.
The case involves William Chapman, who had schizophrenia and a history of psychosis. The inquest heard that he was considered independent and did not have care requirements, while his family had raised concerns about his contact with mental health services.
Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Trust is investigating the care he received. The inquest may help establish what support was in place and whether any changes are needed to mental health services or safety procedures.