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Warning: This article contains distressing content.

A horrific incident occurred at Safari World in Bangkok, Thailand, on September 10, when a zookeeper was tragically mauled to death by a pack of lions in front of terrified tourists.

The victim, identified as Jian Rangkasamee, was a 59-year-old zookeeper who had worked at the zoo since 2019. According to reports, Jian stepped out of his jeep to clear litter from the floor in an open lion enclosure when the lions attacked him. The animals, which had been part of the zoo’s sub-Saharan lion pack, immediately pounced on him, pinning him to the ground.

Horrified onlookers watched helplessly as the lions chewed through his body, leaving behind gruesome scenes. Witnesses described the attack as brutal, with the lions eating Jian’s flesh down to the bone, and his limbs visible beneath the pack. The zoo workers who were present tried to scare the lions away by sounding their horns, but their attempts were unsuccessful.

Medics confirmed Jian had suffered severe injuries, including multiple broken bones and extensive damage to his flesh. The lions continued their attack for several minutes before zoo staff entered the enclosure with guns, forcing the predators to retreat.

The zoo promptly closed the drive-through safari area, and Jian’s remains were taken to a nearby hospital for examination. Professor Tavatchai Kanchanarin, a doctor who witnessed the scene, said the first lion approached Jian, grabbing him from behind, and several others joined in shortly after. Initially, the attack was mistaken for the lions playing, but it quickly became clear that Jian was in grave danger.

Jian had worked with the zoo since 2019 (Viral Press)

The zoo has closed the lion enclosure while officials assess the situation and consider euthanizing the lions involved. Safari World has stated that they are investigating the incident in collaboration with Thailand’s Department of National Parks, which oversees the country’s zoos.

Jian had a long career with animals, spanning over 30 years. He had worked with various species at the zoo, and zoo staff have expressed deep shock at the events.

The lions chewed through his body until exposing the bone (Viral Press)

Despite strict rules in place to protect visitors and employees—prohibiting anyone from leaving their vehicles while in the enclosure—the attack occurred, sparking further questions about safety protocols. Safari World has since issued a statement indicating that the Predator Zone, which houses the lions, will be temporarily closed for maintenance and safety measures.

Safari World also reassured the public that the rest of the park, including the Safari Park and Marine Park, remains open.

Jian had worked with animals for 30 years (Viral Press)

The investigation is ongoing, and Safari World has not yet publicly commented on the details of the incident, but they are reportedly cooperating with authorities.

The zoo confirmed its lion enclosure remains closed (Viral Press)

Featured Image Credit: Viral Press