A devastating event unfolded at the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo when a tiger, having broken free from its enclosure, fatally injured Uriel Nuri, a zoo worker, during a special tour for visitors.

Nuri, who was 36 years old, succumbed to his injuries at Hadassah University Hospital-Ein Kerem, despite the medical team's strenuous efforts to revive him.

The zoo, located in the south-western part of Jerusalem, has temporarily closed its doors to the public as it collaborates with Israeli police to determine the circumstances that allowed the tiger to enter the courtyard where Nuri was engaged in his duties.

Mr. Nuri, head of the carnivores team, frequently shared insights about his work through videos on his Instagram account, showcasing his dedication to these magnificent creatures.

The zoo emphasized that visitors were never in harm's way, being securely positioned behind protective glass. They are conducting an in-depth inquiry into the escape, with early reports speculating a possible malfunction with the enclosure's door.

Reflecting on the immense sorrow caused by this incident, the zoo expressed its heartfelt condolences to Nuri's family.

Previous incidents have highlighted the risks zoo workers face, such as last year's event where a crocodile attack necessitated hospitalization for a severely injured employee.

The 62-acre Biblical Zoo is home to a diverse array of animal species, with a special emphasis on those mentioned in the Bible, as well as endangered species from across the globe, including the critically-endangered Sumatran tiger.