Zoo Keeper Fatally Attacked by Lions at Thailand Safari Park

A veteran animal caretaker at a wildlife park in Thailand has died following an attack by a group of lions. The incident occurred in front of park guests at Safari World Bangkok.

The attack happened on the morning of September 10. Reports indicate the employee exited his vehicle inside the animal enclosure and was attacked by the lions for approximately fifteen minutes.

Officials from the Department of National Parks identified the employee as 58-year-old Jian Rangkarassamee. Sadudee Punpugdee, a director at the department, stated that Rangkarassamee was a staff member whose regular duties included feeding the lions. Punpugdee confirmed that six or seven lions were involved in the attack.

A medical examination revealed that the zookeeper sustained severe injuries, including deep wounds, a broken neck, and damaged arteries.

In response, the zoo has announced the temporary closure of its predator zone. The lions involved have been moved into cages for observation. The entire big cat section will remain closed until necessary safety upgrades and repairs are finished.

A subsequent inspection of the facility by the Department of National Parks found several safety failures. Director Chalerm Poommai reported damaged fencing, a lack of sufficient warning signs, and an inadequate number of security cameras on the property. Poommai also noted that the zoo’s operating license had expired the previous October and had not yet been renewed. He emphasized that the zoo must meet all safety requirements to prevent a future tragedy.

Following the event, Safari World Bangkok released a statement on social media, expressing its commitment to investigate the incident and enhance its safety protocols. The park reiterated its priority is the safety of visitors and staff and reminded the public to remain inside their vehicles while in the open animal zones.

Wildlife conservation groups have also responded. Edwin Wiek of the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) offered condolences to the keeper’s family. The organization stated that the event is a serious reminder that wild animals, even those born in captivity, retain their natural instincts and can be unpredictably dangerous. WFFT urged government authorities to restrict lion breeding to licensed zoos and to ban private individuals from keeping dangerous species.

Another group, World Animal Protection Thailand, called for the lions to be moved to a sanctuary, arguing they were simply acting on their natural behaviors. The organization pointed to a sharp increase in Thailand’s captive lion population, which has grown by 239% since 2018, and expressed concern over a reported 1,300% rise in private lion ownership, linking it to potential animal welfare issues and illegal trade.

Safari World Bangkok promotes itself as one of Asia’s largest open-air zoos, where guests can view animals from their cars or walk through certain areas. The park is also known for its animal performance shows.

This is the second fatal animal attack at a Thai wildlife park this year. In January, a 22-year-old Spanish tourist was killed by an elephant she was bathing at a different care center.