The inquest into William Chapman’s death at Yorkshire Wildlife Park has brought new information to light, raising further questions about the circumstances leading up to the incident on October 10, 2026.

At the opening hearing on October 15, Doncaster Coroner’s Court heard that Chapman, 24, climbed over two fences before entering the enclosure containing an Amur tiger named Altai.

According to evidence presented to the court, Chapman approached the animal, and the ensuing interaction resulted in multiple traumatic injuries. He was pronounced ᴅᴇᴀᴅ at the scene despite emergency ᴀssistance.

But the hearing also revealed another important part of the story.

Chapman’s family had raised concerns about his contact with mental health services before his death. The court heard that he had previously been diagnosed with schizophrenia and had experienced episodes of psychosis. An investigation into his care has since been launched by the relevant NHS trust.

These details have prompted questions about the circumstances surrounding his actions and whether his medical history played any role. However, no official finding has yet established why Chapman entered the enclosure or whether his health contributed to the incident.

A separate health and safety investigation is also examining the circumstances at the wildlife park. The fact that Chapman crossed two barriers does not, by itself, establish whether any safety rules were breached.

The full inquest is scheduled for March 18, 2027, when further evidence may help clarify unanswered questions.

For now, the case involves more than the moment Chapman entered the enclosure. Investigators must establish the facts carefully, while respecting the family’s request that the circumstances be examined without speculation.

The two barriers are a confirmed detail. The reasons behind Chapman’s actions remain an open question.

SOURCE: https://www.itv.com/news/2026-10-15/tiger-attack-victim-had-experienced-previous-bouts-of-psychosis-inquest-hears