A zoo worker tragically lost his life following an attack by a tiger that escaped its enclosure at the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo on Friday morning. Uriel Nuri, 36 and head of the carnivores team, sustained severe injuries while conducting a “behind-the-scenes tour” for visitors and was later pronounced dead despite extensive medical efforts.
Tragic Tiger Attack Claims Life of Zoo Worker in Jerusalem

Tragic Tiger Attack Claims Life of Zoo Worker in Jerusalem
A heartbreaking incident at Jerusalem's Biblical Zoo leaves a dedicated employee fatally injured by a tiger.
The incident occurred early in the day as Nuri was preparing the tigers for enrichment activities, which the zoo described in a statement. They confirmed that, while a tiger managed to breach its enclosure and enter the inner courtyard, visitors remained safe behind protective glass. The zoo is currently collaborating with Israeli police to unravel the circumstances surrounding the tiger's escape, with early reports suggesting a potential issue with the cage door's security.
Nuri was quickly transported to Hadassah University Hospital-Ein Kerem, where the medical team conducted prolonged resuscitation attempts, ultimately declaring him deceased. The hospital expressed its condolences and commitment to supporting his grieving family during this difficult time.
The zoo, which showcases endangered species and biblical animals, expressed deep sorrow over Nuri’s death, stating, “Our hearts go out to Uriel's family.” This incident is not the first of its kind at the facility; in a prior event, a worker was severely injured by a crocodile, highlighting ongoing safety concerns within animal care operations. The beloved 62-acre zoo remains closed as investigations continue into this tragic incident.
Nuri was quickly transported to Hadassah University Hospital-Ein Kerem, where the medical team conducted prolonged resuscitation attempts, ultimately declaring him deceased. The hospital expressed its condolences and commitment to supporting his grieving family during this difficult time.
The zoo, which showcases endangered species and biblical animals, expressed deep sorrow over Nuri’s death, stating, “Our hearts go out to Uriel's family.” This incident is not the first of its kind at the facility; in a prior event, a worker was severely injured by a crocodile, highlighting ongoing safety concerns within animal care operations. The beloved 62-acre zoo remains closed as investigations continue into this tragic incident.