Zookeeper tiger death remains 'unexplained'

Rosa Kin

Police say the death of a zookeeper in Cambridgeshire who was attacked by a tiger remains "unexplained".

Rosa King, 34, died on Monday at Hamerton Zoo Park near Huntingdon after a tiger entered the enclosure she was in.

The tiger has not been harmed and the zoo remains closed.

Rosa King's death is being investigated by Cambridgeshire Police and Huntingdonshire District Council.

Chief Inspector Donna Wass, of Cambridgeshire police, said: "While there are no suspicious circumstances, the death of the zookeeper is still unexplained and the police have a duty to report to the coroner, which is why the police investigation is ongoing.

"Huntingdon District Council have a responsibility for health and safety andlicencing at the zoo, and are investigating these aspects."

Hamerton Zoo Park will remain closed following Rosa King's death.

Nigel McCurdy, for Huntingdonshire District Council, said: "Both the police and the council are working together within routine protocols to progress investigations into the incident as efficiently and effectively as possible."

A statement released by the zoo said: "It is with huge regret that we confirmthat Rosa King, a senior zookeeper who was an invaluable and highly respected member of our team, died on Monday morning after entering a tiger enclosure at Hamerton Zoo Park."

"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Rosa's family and friends, many of whom worked alongside her at the zoo.

"We are cooperating fully with the investigation that is currently being conducted by Huntingdonshire District Council Environmental Health Department.

"The zoo will remain closed for the time being. We are not able to commentfurther at this time."