Tiger Fatally Mauls Handler During Oklahoma Show Near Texas

(KNUE-FM) In Texas there are lots of people, myself included, that love animals. But we have to remember that when dealing with large animals they can be unpredictable. While it can be a lot of fun visiting the zoo or a wildlife preserve, you must be careful as animals can attack at any time causing injury or even death.

Where the Tiger Attack Happened

Unfortunately, that is what happened recently as a tiger fatally mauled his handler during a big cat show in Oklahoma.

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What We Know About the Handler

The details were released by KHOU, regarding 37-year-old Ryan Easley losing his life after the tiger unexpectedly started to bite and shake the handler as onlookers watched in horror. The unfortunate incident took place this past Saturday at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve near Hugo, which is not far from the Texas border.

Dispatchers received an emergency call with first responders rushing to the scene but there was nothing that could be done as Easley was already deceased by the time Choctaw County Sheriff’s could arrive.

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Family Witnessed the Tragedy

Probably the most difficult part of this tragedy is that Easley’s wife and young daughter were present when the attack occurred.

The preserve is a private facility where visitors can take tours including seeing tigers and demonstrations on how the animals are cared for and trained. All tours have been canceled until further notice.

This is not the first time a tiger has attacked and killed its handler, in 1997 a 400-pound Bengal tiger killed it’s trainer in front of 200 people in Pennsylvania.

We are sending thoughts and prayers to Easley’s family during this difficult time.