Tiger handler and Joe Exotic associate fatally mauled by tiger at Oklahoma preserve

A tiger handler and associate of Joe Exotic was killed Saturday after a tiger attacked him during an encounter at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve in Hugo, Oklahoma, authorities said. Ryan Easley died after the animal struck him during an "accident" at the preserve, which offers guided tours and demonstrations of how big cats are trained, according to a post on the facility's Facebook page.

The preserve said it would cancel all tours and encounters until further notice. Easley had acquired tigers from Joe Maldonado, known as Joe Exotic, the incarcerated star of Tiger King, for his business ShowMe Tigers, according to the notes. Colleagues described him as a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation, saying his life was dedicated to the care and protection of big cats. The post described Easley as someone for whom the animals were more than just creatures, but beings with whom he formed a daily bond rooted in respect, daily care, and love.

PETA's statement added a sharper critique. The animal-rights group said Easley "hauled them around the country" and "forced them to perform in cruel circuses." It urged wild animal exhibitors to exit the business and to relocate animals to accredited sanctuaries.

The exact circumstances of Easley’s death remain unclear, and authorities continue to investigate the incident. The tragedy has drawn renewed attention to safety concerns around private big-cat facilities and the risks involved in human interactions with apex predators.

Growler Pines has historically offered roadside demonstrations and tours featuring trained big cats, a model that animal welfare groups say raises welfare concerns when conducted outside accredited sanctuaries. The incident underscores the broader debate over private ownership of big cats and how to balance public access with animal welfare.