Inquest hears man died after entering tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park

William Chapman died from multiple traumatic injuries after entering a tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, an inquest has heard. The 24-year-old had climbed two fences to get into the pen at the park near Doncaster on Saturday, the hearing was told. [1]

Senior coroner Nicola Mundy said Chapman had a history of mental illness, including a diagnosis of schizophrenia and previous episodes of psychosis. He was receiving adult mental health services in Doncaster, but was described at the inquest as “highly functioning and independent with no care requirements”. [1]

Chapman’s family had raised concerns about his contact with mental health services, the hearing heard. Coroner’s officer Caitlin Brookes said the NHS trust had launched an investigation after his death. The trust said it could not comment on his care but confirmed the family knew about the investigation. [1]

Brookes told the inquest that the tiger approached Chapman and that their physical contact caused injuries which rapidly led to his death. Park staff secured the animal and paramedics confirmed Chapman had died at the scene. The coroner said she was awaiting a fuller report on the extent of his injuries. [1]

The inquest was opened at Doncaster Coroner’s Court on Thursday and adjourned until 18 March 2027. Mundy asked the park to preserve relevant CCTV and to tell the coroner whether Chapman had visited before. South Yorkshire Police provided witness statements from members of the public and park staff, the hearing was told. [1]

The park, which was evacuated after the incident, was due to reopen on Friday. A council health and safety investigation has also been launched. [1]