In Brazil, a zoo visitor climbed into an enclosure with a lioness: the man died from a predator attack

In the city of João Pessoa, Brazil, 19-year-old Gerson Machado died after entering a lioness enclosure at the Arruda Camera Park zoo. The man died at the scene from his injuries, and the facility was completely closed for an investigation.

This is reported by Nationwide News .

The incident took place on Sunday at the zoo, also known as Bica Park. Gerson Machado climbed over a fence about 6 meters high and lowered himself into the enclosure using a palm tree. The man’s actions were captured on video by visitors who tried to stop him by shouting.

A zoo spokesman said security guards tried to intervene, but the man acted too quickly and suffered fatal injuries from the lioness’ attack. City officials said the area would remain closed until an official investigation was completed.

“Although security guards tried to stop Gerson Machado, he acted too quickly and died from injuries inflicted by the lioness,” a zoo spokesman said.

Police are investigating the death as a possible suicide. It is also reported that Gerson Machado had a history of mental illness and had previously expressed a desire to live with the big cats of Africa. He was also known to local social services.

The Regional Veterinary Board will conduct an inspection of the facility’s video surveillance systems, access control, and internal security protocols.

“We express our solidarity with the family of the victim of this tragic incident,” said a city government representative.

Bica Park said the lioness involved in the attack will not be euthanized and is currently under the care of specialists due to her high stress levels.

“It is important to emphasize that the issue of euthanasia was not considered. The lioness is healthy, does not show aggression outside of this incident, and will not be put to sleep,” a zoo representative said.

“The protocol in such situations involves observation, behavioral assessment, and specialized care,” the administration added.

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