Medical records belonging to William Chapman, the 24-year-old man killed by a tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster, may have been accessed by staff at Yorkshire Ambulance Trust without proper authorization, according to a statement from the trust.
According to BBC News, Chapman died following a mauling at the wildlife park on 10 October 2026. In response to his death, Yorkshire Ambulance Trust has disclosed that it identified two potential incidents in which staff members either accessed or attempted to access incident and medical information related to the case without what the trust described as a legitimate reason.
The trust announced that it has initiated a formal investigation to determine the complete circumstances surrounding these potential data breaches. The organization has not yet released details about the identities of the staff members involved or the specific information that may have been accessed.
Background to the Incident
Chapman entered the tiger enclosure at the wildlife park on 10 October 2026 at approximately 13:35 BST, according to South Yorkshire Police. An inquest opening revealed that Chapman had schizophrenia and was receiving mental health treatment at the time of his death. His family expressed concerns about his contact with mental health services prior to the incident.
What Happens Next
Yorkshire Ambulance Trust's investigation will examine how staff members gained access to Chapman's medical records and whether proper protocols were followed. The findings of this inquiry may result in disciplinary action against those involved and could prompt a review of data protection procedures within the organization.
