A child has died after falling into an enclosure in a zoo.

The child, aged 3, fell into an enclosure of African wild dogs in the US city of Pittsburgh. He had been on an outing with his mother in the zoo at the time, when he collapsed over a railing, and then off a mesh barrier into the enclosure. The zoo keepers there at the time managed to get most of the 11 dogs present away, however one was persistent and had to be killed on the spot by shooting it. After the incident the zoo was shut and there are now investigations under way by both the police and the zoo. 

The head of the zoo, Barbara Baker has announced that she is deeply sorry for the events that took place, and apologised for what had happened, in front of a news conference. She agreed that the dogs evidently attacked the boy, however she said it was not clear yet whether he had already died from the fall or whether the dogs killed him. No clear future for the African wild dog enclosure is yet certain, however they are an endangered species so it is likely this will play a part in the decision.

This is a deeply saddening event, and one that the family of the child will never forget. If you would like to share your views on the event click “Read More & Comment”.

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