"I'm asking you, please, not to add to this family's pain": South Yorkshire Mayor issues statement after fatal tiger attack
“[The family] spoke to my office yesterday, sharing the pain and suffering it's causing them knowing that videos and pictures of his death are being shared across social media”
South Yorkshire’s Mayor has shared a family’s plea calling on members of the public not to share videos of a fatal tiger attack.
William Chapman tragically died on Saturday, October 10, after entering the tiger enclosure at Yorkshire Wildlife Park.
The incident has garnered national attention, with an inquest set to open tomorrow while Doncaster City Council have launched their own health and safety investigation.
Now, South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard has shared a message on Wednesday (October 14) after speaking to William’s “devastated” family.
“[The family] spoke to my office yesterday, sharing the pain and suffering it's causing them knowing that videos and pictures of his death are being shared across social media,” he added.
“The President of the United States now using AI to mock that incident and the pain felt by the family of Mr Chapman, for little more than a cheap laugh on social media, should be greeted with the contempt it deserves.
“So I'm asking you, please, not to add to this family's pain. If someone shares the content with you, please don't pass it on. And, better still, please consider asking whoever shared it to stop doing so.”
In a tribute, family described William as a “bright, warm and engaging young man whom his family dearly loved,” saying that he suffered from “significant mental illness.”
Footage of his final moments was captured by onlookers and has been shared across social media - including from US President Donald Trump.
President Trump went on to create an AI video depicting himself playing with the tiger.
Investigations into the matters are ongoing, and Mayor Coppard has asked people to avoid speculation while the authorities to do their work.
“I know people have questions about how and why this dreadful incident happened,” the mayor continued.
“But I would urge people not to speculate online. That speculation adds to the pain being endured by Mr Chapman’s family. A full investigation is underway, including an inquest, and the relevant authorities need the time and space to work their way through the incident. Answers will come in time.
“The family of Mr Chapman remain utmost in my thoughts. I know all decent people across South Yorkshire will be sending them their love, thoughts and empathy.”