A 24-year-old man who was fatally attacked by a tiger after deliberately entering its enclosure at a wildlife park died from "multiple traumatic injuries and animal interaction", an inquest has established.
William Chapman visited Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster on Saturday afternoon and was killed after climbing two separate fences to gain access to the animal's pen. He was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after the attack occurred at approximately 13:30 BST.
The inquest opening took place at Doncaster Coroner's Court on Thursday morning. Senior coroner Nicola Mundy presided over the proceedings, which Chapman's family chose not to attend. Mundy adjourned the full inquest until March 2027 to allow for further investigation and evidence gathering.
Mental health background
During the inquest opening, the coroner noted that Chapman had experienced significant mental health challenges throughout his life. He had received a diagnosis of schizophrenia and had previously suffered multiple episodes of psychosis. At the time of his death, he was receiving treatment and support from the Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust.
Impact on the wildlife park
The incident prompted an immediate evacuation of Yorkshire Wildlife Park on Saturday afternoon. The facility has remained closed since the attack, and park officials have not yet announced when it will reopen to the public. The closure represents a significant disruption to operations at the facility, which attracts visitors from across the region.
What happens next
The full inquest is scheduled to resume in March 2027, when further evidence will be presented and examined. The coroner will ultimately determine the circumstances surrounding Chapman's death and issue formal findings.
