Crimean Wildlife Park Worker Killed by Lions in Fatal Incident

A criminal investigation into potential negligence has been launched following the death of chief zookeeper Leokadia Perevalova at Taigan Safari Park.

The incident occurred when Perevalova entered a lion cage without securing an internal door meant to separate her from the animals.
Taigan Safari Park, located in Belogorsk, Crimea, houses approximately 60 lions and spans over 75 acres.
The Russian Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case to determine whether negligence by the park or the worker contributed to the tragedy.
Park owner Oleg Zubkov has faced previous scrutiny over safety issues and legal challenges, with over 300 legal cases since Crimea's annexation by Russia in 2014.
Zubkov described Perevalova as the 'soul of the park,' noting her 17 years of service and lamenting the absence of other employees during the attack.