Zookeeper killed in lion attack at Bangkok safari park during tourist visit

A veteran zookeeper in Thailand was mauled to death by a group of lions at Safari World Bangkok, a private zoo in the capital, in an attack witnessed by tourists and filmed by bystanders, according to multiple local outlets including the Thai News Agency.

The incident occurred Wednesday morning when the staff member, identified as 58-year-old Jian Rangkharasamee, stepped out of his work vehicle inside the lion enclosure, reportedly to retrieve an item from the ground. Authorities said leaving the vehicle was a breach of established safety rules. Witnesses told Nation Thailand that at least three lions dragged him to the ground and mauled him for around 15 minutes before colleagues managed to intervene. He was transported to Intrarat Hospital but was later pronounced dead.

Rangkharasamee had more than two decades of experience working with tigers and lions and was tasked with guiding animals in the exhibit. His death is the first fatal incident of its kind reported at the zoo in over 40 years, Bangkok Post noted.

Safari World expressed “deepest condolences” to the victim’s family and pledged “full care and support,” while also promising to urgently review safety measures. The park has been temporarily closed.

Wildlife authorities have launched an inquiry into the circumstances of the attack, including whether Safari World’s lions are legally registered and whether its animal enclosures meet required safety standards.

The Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand, an NGO, said in a statement that while Safari World’s safety record appeared consistent with international standards, incidents involving captive predators highlighted ongoing risks. “Keeping dangerous wildlife in captivity always carries serious risks for both people and animals,” the group said.

Fatal encounters with wild animals remain a concern in Thailand. Officials previously reported that wild elephants were responsible for more than 200 deaths nationwide over the past 12 years.