Oklahoma preserve tiger handler fatally mauled
A tiger handler at an Oklahoma preserve was fatally mauled in an accident involving one of the animals he cared for, the wildlife refuge has revealed. Ryan Easley was attacked on Saturday the 20th September 2025 at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve in Hugo.
“This tragedy is a painful reminder of both the beauty and unpredictability of the natural world,” the preserve said in a Facebook post. “Ryan understood those risks, not out of recklessness but out of love. The animals under his care were not just animals to him, but beings he formed a connection with, one rooted in respect, daily care and love.”
The Oklahoma preserve said it remembers him as “passionate advocate for wildlife conservation,” who especially loved big cats and dedicated his life to the care of animals,” adding that “his courage, compassion and unwavering commitment to wildlife will never be forgotten.”
The centre has since cancelled tours and animal encounters until further notice. The private facility allows people to book guided tours where they can meet tigers and witness demonstrations on how they are trained and cared for, the website says.
Animal protection group PETA said in a statement that “it’s never safe for humans to interact directly with apex predators.” It canned on wild animal exhibitors to “get out of the business now and send the animals to accredited sanctuaries where they can finally live in peace.”
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