Caretaker killed by tiger at wildlife preserve in southeastern Oklahoma

Hugo, okla. – An animal manager was killed by a tiger under his custody at a reserve for the big cats in southeast of Oklahoma, the organization announced on Sunday.

Growler Pines Tiger Presert said in a statement that Ryan Easley died on Saturday in “an accident” involving a tiger on the property near Hugo, not far from the Texas border.

“This tragedy is a painful reminder of both the beauty and unpredictability of the natural world,” said the preserve on his Facebook page. “Ryan understood these risks – not by imprudence but out of love. The animals of which he was at his expense were not only animals for him, but beings with which he formed a link – a rooted with respect, daily care and love. “

All visits have been canceled until further notice, according to the press release.

The reserve is a private installation where visitors can book visits to see tigers and see demonstrations on how animals are trained and neat, according to its website.