JOÃO PESSOA, Brazil (WJW) – A teen was mauled to death at a zoo in Brazil after jumping in the lion enclosure.
According to a statement, a 19-year-old climbed a wall about 20 feet high and broke into the big cat enclosure at Arruda Camara Zoo Botanical Park.
Local news outlets identified the teen as Gerson De Melo Machado.
Machado was mauled to death by a lioness.
“As soon as the incident was reported, the park was immediately closed, following all safety protocols. The teams contacted the competent authorities and provided the necessary support for the assistance and the work of the forensics team,” according to a statement.
The zoo is remaining closed to visitors while they examine safety protocols.