LATEST UPDATE: Authorities are continuing to investigate the death of William Chapman, 24, who was fatally attacked by an Amur tiger after entering its enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster, England, on October 10, 2026. South Yorkshire Police confirmed that emergency services attended the scene, but Chapman was pronounced dead despite their efforts. The park was evacuated as officers began investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
An inquest opened on October 15 heard that an initial post-mortem examination identified multiple traumatic injuries. The hearing also established that Chapman had entered the enclosure after climbing over two fences. Meanwhile, the City of Doncaster Council has launched a separate health-and-safety investigation, and a full inquest is scheduled for March 18, 2027.
Further developments have raised questions about the handling of Chapman’s confidential medical information. Yorkshire Ambulance Service is investigating concerns that two staff members may have accessed, or attempted to access, his medical records without a legitimate reason. The Information Commissioner’s Office has also been informed.
As authorities continue examining the circumstances surrounding this tragedy, important questions remain about the events leading up to Chapman’s death and the separate investigation into the alleged data breach. Officials have yet to publish their final findings.
The investigations remain ongoing, and further evidence may help establish the full circumstances of the case.