HUGO, Okla. (KFOR) — An Oklahoma man was killed Saturday by a tiger in his care at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve, an animal preserve in Hugo.
The facility said Ryan Easley died in “an accident” involving the tiger, per a statement shared to social media. The statement did not elaborate on the circumstances surrounding the accident.
“Ryan was a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation,” the preserve’s statement reads, in part. “His love for animals, especially Big Cats, was evident in every aspect of his life. He dedicated his life to the protection and care of these magnificent animals, and he believed deeply in the mission of Growler Pines — to provide a safe and forever enriching home for the animals under his care.”
“This tragedy is a painful reminder of both the beauty and unpredictability of the natural world,” another portion of the statement reads. “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.”
A message posted to the facility’s website currently informs visitors that all tours of the preserve are postponed, and refunds will be issued to ticketholders.
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Growler Pines Tiger Preserve is a private facility “only open to the public by reservation for guided encounters,” according to its website.
“Your tour of our home will allow you to meet our tigers and includes our unique hands-on demonstrations showing how we train and care for them through the building of personal relationships, time, patience and expertise,” the website reads.
