South Carolina man Eric Slate found dead in petting zoo enclosure after ‘rough-housing’ with kangaroo
A 52-year-old American man is suspected to have been killed by a kangaroo at a South Carolina petting zoo.
Eric Slate’s body was discovered inside the kangaroo’s enclosure with multiple blunt force injuries just before midnight on Friday at 5 Star Farm near Loris, authorities say.
Mr Slate was the brother of the owner of the petting zoo, Robert Slate.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.A South Carolina council member, Mark Causey, told an American cable news television channel that Mr Slate had a “history” of stepping into the enclosure and “rough-housing” with the kangaroo, which is what allegedly took place the evening he died.
The large red kangaroo, who visitors know as Mr Jack, was still in its enclosure alongside several other animals when Mr Slate’s body was found, Mr Causey revealed.
Mr Causey confirmed that the kangaroo has not been euthanised because “it’s not an aggressive animal” and the incident “was not the animal’s fault.”
“It’s very sad,” he added.
Less than a week before Mr Slate’s attempt to confront the kangaroo, the farm shared photos of Mr Jack on social media, writing, “he loves neck scratches and will take treats from your hand.”
Adult male red kangaroos can weigh nearly 90kg and grow up to 1.8 metres tall, with powerful feet for kicking, according to News Corp.
The 5 Star Farm petting zoo has been operating for more than 15 years and is home to many exotic animals including camels, zebras and kangaroos.
South Carolina state law allows for ownership of some unusual animals, even those that aren’t native to the area.
The investigation is currently ongoing, and an autopsy has been ordered, according to Horry Country Police.
