A tragic incident unfolded in Germany as an escaped tiger, believed to be owned by Carmen Zander, known colloquially as 'Tiger Queen', was shot dead by police after it attacked a 72-year-old man.
The attack occurred on Sunday while the man was inside the tiger's enclosure, located in a privately-owned facility on the outskirts of Leipzig. He sustained serious injuries as a result of the attack.
Following the attack, police were dispatched to the scene and found the male tiger shortly after its escape. In a decisive action to eliminate any further risk to the public, officers shot and killed the animal.
Local media reported that the facility, which houses eight big cats, is owned by Zander, who promotes events where visitors can interact with the tigers. Following the shooting, an investigation was launched to determine how the tiger managed to escape its enclosure.
No other animals have escaped, and authorities are conducting drone searches to ensure the site is secure. Local officials, including District Mayor Thomas Druskat, have called for the remaining animals to be relocated, citing public safety concerns.
Residents expressed alarm at the events, with some claiming the conditions at the facility are unsuitable for the animals. Animal rights organization PETA has urged the government to implement stricter regulations for privately-owned exotic animals in the wake of the incident.
As the investigation continues, the dramatic events have raised serious questions about the safety and treatment of exotic animals in private ownership. The BBC has reached out to Zander for further comment on the situation.
