Man killed by tiger was diagnosed schizophrenic as family ‘raised concerns’ before tragic incident

Warning: This article contains discussion of mental health which some readers may find distressing.

The family of a man who was mauled to death by a tiger at the Yorkshire Wildlife Park had expressed concerns about his contact with mental health services leading up to his death, an inquest has heard.

The victim, William Chapman, had been attacked by the animal at the wildlife park in Doncaster, on Saturday.

His family said he had suffered from ‘significant mental illness over a number of years’ and was ‘prescribed strong medication’.

William Chapman died in the incident (Instagram)

The coroners hearing was told that William’s family had confirmed he had ‘a history of mental illness, a diagnosis of schizophrenia and had suffered previous bouts of psychosis’.

In a statement released on Tuesday evening, his family had said: “It will be for the coroner to decide what part this played in his death.”

The former child actor had recorded himself approaching the big cat before the incident occurred in front of park attendees.

A hearing held at Doncaster Coroner’s Court on Thursday morning heard how William climbed two fences before entering the enclosure.

A post mortem gave his provisional cause of death as multiple traumatic injuries from animal interaction.

Floral tributes were left at the park (Dave Higgens/PA Wire)

He was under adult mental health services in Doncaster but was ‘highly functioning and independent with no care requirements,’ the inquest heard.

Coroners officer Caitlin Brookes said the Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation trust had launched an investigation following his death.

His family previously issued a tribute in which they described the 24-year-old, who was a self-employed online trader, as ‘a bright, warm and engaging young man whom his family dearly loved – and William loved them back.’

Emergency services were contacted shortly after 1.30pm on 10 October when Mr Chapman, who police said was visiting the park alone, entered the enclosure.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

City of Doncaster Council, which is responsible for licensing the park, has since confirmed it has started a health and safety investigation.

William Chapman had concerns raised about his mental health (Family Handout)

In a previous statement on social media, the wildlife park said ‘many, many people’ had contacted them about Altai, the Amur tiger involved in the incident, and it confirmed he is ‘safe and well’ and will not be euthanised.

A full inquest into the death of Mr Chapman will be held on 18 March.

If you’re experiencing distressing thoughts and feelings, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is there to support you. They’re open from 5pm–midnight, 365 days a year. Their national number is 0800 58 58 58 and they also have a webchat service if you’re not comfortable talking on the phone.