In brief
A veteran keeper at Beekse Bergen park was killed in a Persian leopard attack. Despite rapid medical response, her injuries were fatal. An investigation will look for clues as no CCTV filmed the incident, while the leopards remain in the enclosure. The park has announced a memorial for staff and visitors to honor her memory.
A 40‑year‑old zookeeper at the Dutch Beekse Bergen park died after a fatal assault by two Persian leopards.
The veteran keeper had started in 2006 and devoted four decades to caring for the animals. While feeding the leopards in an indoor enclosure during a storm, the cats leapt at her.
She suffered head and neck wounds, was air‑lifted to a hospital, and tragically died days later.
Because the enclosure has no CCTV, investigators will search for other evidence. The leopards will remain on display, and the park will not euthanise them.
Beekse Bergen is creating a memorial spot for guests and coworkers to share condolences in her honour.
