The Brief

A keeper at a zoo in Thailand was mauled to death by lions in front of visitors on Wednesday, according to reports.

The drive-in zone where the tragedy occurred was closed until further notice, according to the Bangkok Post.

What happened?

Dig deeper:

After exiting his vehicle, the zookeeper was attacked from behind by a lion.

Visitors who were driving through Safari World Bangkok watched in horror as several other lions attacked. The mauling lasted about 15 minutes, according to the Post.

Another keeper arrived and pulled his colleague to safety before he was rushed to the hospital. He later died from the injuries he sustained in the attack.

Local perspective:

The deceased employee was identified as Jian Rangkharasamee, 58, according to USA Today.

Rangkharasamee

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