The Bridgeton Police Department in New Jersey is on the lookout for a woman who dangerously disregarded safety protocols at the Cohanzick Zoo by climbing over a wooden fence surrounding the tiger enclosure. The woman attempted to pet a 500-pound Bengal tiger, coming perilously close to being injured.
The incident, which was captured on video, shows the woman reaching her hand through the wire enclosure in an attempt to lure the tiger closer. The massive cat responded by snapping at her hand, causing the woman to quickly pull away just in time. Fortunately, she avoided being bitten, but the close call has raised serious concerns about zoo safety and visitor behavior.
In their official statement on Facebook, the Bridgeton Police Department included footage of the incident and a photo of a sign clearly posted near the tiger enclosure. The sign reads, “Do not climb over the fence. Climbing over any zoo fence is against city ordinance 247-C.” The police reminded the public that such actions are illegal and could result in being banned from the zoo.
News 12 New Jersey also reported that the ordinance not only prohibits such reckless actions but may lead to more severe consequences for the individual involved. The zoo’s website states that the Bengal tiger involved in the incident was one of two born in 2016 and donated to the zoo from North Carolina. Initially weighing just 20 pounds as a cub, the tiger now weighs a formidable 500 pounds, making it the second-largest tiger species after the Siberian tiger.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the woman’s identity to come forward, as her actions could have led to a dangerous and potentially tragic outcome. The police and zoo officials are emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety protocols to protect both visitors and the animals they come to see.