Zoo: Tiger Attacked, Killed Employee Who Didn't Follow Rules

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (WWJ/AP) - A Florida zoo official says an employee who was killed by a tiger earlier this month didn't follow zoo policy.

Palm Beach Zoo CEO Andrew Aiken said in a statement posted Friday on Facebook that zoo policy prohibits zookeepers from entering an enclosure to which a tiger has access.

One of the questions noted: "Can you cite the particular recommendation by the AZA on how many staffers should deal with apex predators?
The AZA is very clear on how many zookeepers are required to shift, feed or perform other activities – the answer is either one or two people. The Zoo has always been in compliance with AZA regulations."

Stacey Konwiser, 38, was killed April 15 when a male Malayan tiger attacked her in the enclosure known as the night house, where tigers sleep and are fed. Aiken said Konwiser entered the part of the night house "after it was clearly designated as accessible by a tiger."

Aiken said five investigations are underway into the incident.

The zoo's Facebook page says "zookeepers are never to enter into an enclosure when a tiger is present or has access to the enclosure."

 
TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.