Tragic Incident at Jerusalem Zoo: Worker Killed by Escaped Leopard

An Israeli zoo worker's tragic death raises concerns about animal enclosure security and staff safety.

A devastating incident unfolded at the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo on Friday morning when Uriel Nuri, a 36-year-old head of the carnivores team, was fatally attacked by a leopard that had escaped its enclosure during a behind-the-scenes tour for visitors. The zoo confirmed that Nuri succumbed to severe injuries sustained during the attack, despite immediate medical attention at Hadassah University Hospital-Ein Kerem, where resuscitation attempts failed, leading to his untimely death.

The incident has prompted the zoo to collaborate with Israeli police in an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the leopard's escape into the inner courtyard, where Nuri was working. Following the attack, the zoo has temporarily closed its doors to visitors, ensuring no patrons were at risk during the incident, as they were safely behind glass barriers.

In a statement, the zoo expressed deep sorrow, stating, "The staff's pain is immense, and our hearts go out to Uriel's family." Nuri was known for sharing insights into his work with big cats, including not only leopards but also tigers and lions, on his social media platforms.

Reports indicate that officials are looking into whether the enclosure's door may have malfunctioned, which allowed the leopard to escape. The incident follows a previous safety concern at the zoo from last year when a crocodile had to be euthanized after injuring a different worker.

The Jerusalem Biblical Zoo, located in the southwestern part of the city, spans 62 acres and hosts numerous species, focusing on animals mentioned in the Bible alongside various endangered species from across the globe.