Camilla Jessen
19-year-old killed in front of visitors after breaching zoo barrier.
A visit to a popular zoo in northeastern Brazil ended in tragedy on Sunday when a 19-year-old man was killed after climbing into a lioness enclosure.
Authorities say the victim has been identified as Gerson de Melo Machado.
Machado scaled a high barrier before entering the habitat of a lioness named Leona at Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara in João Pessoa, Paraíba.
Fatal breach
According to the municipal government, Machado “deliberately invaded the lioness’ enclosure.”
Officials said he climbed a 20-foot (over six-meter) wall, crossed security bars and used a tree to gain access.
A video recorded by visitors captures people shouting, “It got him, it got him,” as the attack unfolded.
The government later confirmed that Machado “died from injuries caused by the animal.”
The zoo, which hosts hundreds of species, described the incident as “extremely sad” and announced it would remain closed during the investigation.
In an Instagram statement, administrators stressed that the park “follows rigorous technical standards and safety protocols” and is cooperating fully with authorities.
Lioness to remain in care
The park also released a separate update on Leona, the lioness involved. Staff said she was evaluated immediately after the incident and “remains under continuous observation” due to stress.
They emphasized that euthanasia is not being considered, noting that Leona “does not exhibit aggressive behavior outside the context of the incident.”
Zoo veterinarian Thiago Nery said the enclosure’s protective structure is eight meters high, far exceeding normal safety guidelines.
Local authorities are now examining the circumstances that led Machado to enter the enclosure.
Early findings suggest the act “may have been a possible suicide attempt,” according to the government’s preliminary report.
Sources: Municipal Government of João Pessoa; Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara statements; CBS; Newsner
