Statement 21st October - Tragic incident at London Zoo
Sunday 21 October 2001
1.00 pm
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our colleague Jim Robson, Senior Keeper of the elephants at London Zoo. He died from the injuries he sustained following an incident that occurred on Saturday, 20th October. We understand that he tripped and fell and was stepped on by one of the three female Asian elephants. Despite colleagues going to his aid and the emergency services arriving soon after, he died later in hospital. At present we cant confirm which of the elephants was involved in the incident.
"Jim was an able, dedicated and experienced Keeper who had worked at the Zoo for 26 years, 16 of which were with elephants. He had a deep bond and love for the three elephants he worked with and was at his happiest when with them. Everyone at London Zoo is deeply shocked and upset by Saturdays events and will miss him greatly. All our thoughts are with Jims family", said Nick Lindsay, Senior Curator at the Zoological Society of London.
London Zoo is offering support to all staff, volunteers and visitors who witnessed this incident. As a mark of respect, London Zoo was closed on Sunday, 21st October. The Zoo would like to thank all visitors, staff, and of course the emergency services for their help, support and understanding at this difficult time.
London Zoo is co-operating fully with the authorities and holding an investigation into the incident and therefore it is inappropriate that we speculate or comment further on this matter.
- ENDS -
<i>Please contact Public Relations at the Zoological Society of London for any further information:
Debbie Curtis/Peter Beatty
Tel: 020-7449 6363
or
Mobile: 07889 043 843
— ENDS —
