A tiger killed a man at an Oklahoma animal preserve, officials said.

The Growler Pines Tiger Preserve said Ryan Easley was killed Saturday by a tiger under his care.

"This tragedy is a painful reminder of both the beauty and unpredictability of the natural world," the preserve said in a statement. "Ryan understood those risks- not out of recklessness but out of love."

The preserve, which touts its education and conservation programs, offers guided tours to the public. However, a notice on its website says all tours are currently postponed and tickets will be refunded.

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While Easley may be remembered as someone who cared deeply for tigers, his work also drew criticism. People for the

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