Arruda Camara Park: Teenager mauled to death after breaking into lion enclosure at Brazilian zoo
WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT
A teenager has been mauled to death after breaking into a lion enclosure at a Brazilian zoo.
Gerson Machado scaled a six-metre wall to enter the lion enclosure at Arruda Câmara Park in Joao Pessoa, in the country’s North East, on Sunday.
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Disturbing footage filmed by onlookers and shared on social media shows the 19-year-old sliding down the tree moments before the animal lunged at him.
Visitors were visibly distressed by the gruesome scene as the lioness latched its claws into the teen and dragged him away.
The zoo confirmed Mr Machado’s death in a statement shared on social media, saying the park was immediately closed.
“The Arruda Câmara Zoo (Bica) deeply regrets what happened this Sunday morning, when a man deliberately broke into the lioness’ enclosure, resulting in death,” the post read.
“Once the incident was confirmed, the park was immediately closed, following all safety protocols.
“The teams mobilised the competent authorities and provided the necessary support for the service and work of the experts.”
The zoo will remain closed until investigations are complete.
“We reinforce that the park follows strict technical norms and safety standards, and we are cooperating fully with all responsible authorities in clarifying the facts,” the statement continued.
“The Arruda Camara Park is in solidarity with the family of the boy who passed away, deeply regrets the loss and wishes strength at this difficult time.”
Security staff reportedly tried to stop Mr Machado as he climbed into the enclosure, but he moved too quickly.
“According to the Civil Police investigation, the man acted in a possible act of suicide,” a statement from the Joao Pessoa Environment Secretary read.
The teen had previously been diagnosed with schizophrenia and had been in several mental health institutions, according to local publication O Cerreio Braziliense, who spoke to Mr Machado’s councillor.
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