The Jerusalem Biblical Zoo is currently conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, which led to the death of Uriel Nuri, aged 36.
Tragic Incident: Zoo Worker Killed by Escaped Leopard in Jerusalem

Tragic Incident: Zoo Worker Killed by Escaped Leopard in Jerusalem
A zoo worker in Jerusalem has died following an attack by a leopard that escaped its enclosure during a visitor tour.
An unfortunate event unfolded at the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo when Uriel Nuri, head of the carnivores team, was fatally injured by an escaped leopard during a routine enrichment activity for visitors. The attack occurred on Friday morning, prompting immediate medical assistance as Nuri was rushed to Hadassah University Hospital-Ein Kerem, where he was later declared dead after extensive resuscitation efforts.
The zoo has expressed deep sorrow over the incident, emphasizing their commitment to a thorough investigation in collaboration with Israeli police to determine how the leopard managed to escape its enclosure and enter the courtyard where Nuri was working. Fortunately, zoo visitors were not in harm's way, having been safely sheltered behind a glass partition during the attack.
The zoo has detailed that the escape incident is under scrutiny, particularly whether a potential malfunction of the enclosure door contributed to the leopard's escape. The staff at the zoo are mourning the loss of their colleague, with heartfelt condolences extended to Nuri's family.
This tragic event has raised concerns within the institution, which houses various species and is designed to impart knowledge about animals mentioned in biblical texts. Notably, the zoo has experienced past incidents, including the serious injury of a worker last year when a crocodile bit her, leading the animal to be euthanized. The enclosure's safety protocols and animal welfare may face renewed scrutiny as investigations continue.
The zoo has expressed deep sorrow over the incident, emphasizing their commitment to a thorough investigation in collaboration with Israeli police to determine how the leopard managed to escape its enclosure and enter the courtyard where Nuri was working. Fortunately, zoo visitors were not in harm's way, having been safely sheltered behind a glass partition during the attack.
The zoo has detailed that the escape incident is under scrutiny, particularly whether a potential malfunction of the enclosure door contributed to the leopard's escape. The staff at the zoo are mourning the loss of their colleague, with heartfelt condolences extended to Nuri's family.
This tragic event has raised concerns within the institution, which houses various species and is designed to impart knowledge about animals mentioned in biblical texts. Notably, the zoo has experienced past incidents, including the serious injury of a worker last year when a crocodile bit her, leading the animal to be euthanized. The enclosure's safety protocols and animal welfare may face renewed scrutiny as investigations continue.