Authorities Seek Public Help in Identifying the Reckless Visitor
Bridgeton, New Jersey – In a shocking incident at the Cohanzick Zoo, a woman risked her life by climbing over a barrier surrounding a tiger enclosure and nearly got bitten. The Bridgeton Police Department is now on the lookout for this woman, who was caught on video approaching the big cats and putting her hand through a metal fence.
The police released the footage on Tuesday, although the exact date of the incident remains unknown. “A female at the Cohanzick Zoo went over the wooden fence at the tiger enclosure and began enticing the tiger almost getting bit by putting her hand through the wire enclosure,” the police stated on Facebook. “We are asking if anyone recognizes the female in the video/photo.”
The startling footage
The video reveals the woman scaling a wooden fence designed to keep visitors at a safe distance from the tigers. She then approaches the tall metal fence and places her hand through a small gap, seemingly attempting to pet the enormous animal. The tiger reacts quickly, snapping its jaws toward her, forcing her to retreat hastily. The woman then pauses and poses, as if for a photograph, before climbing back over the wooden fence.
Police warning and call for information
In their statement, the Bridgeton Police emphasized the gravity of the situation and the legal implications: “Reminder to the public when visiting the zoo that it is against City Ordinance to climb over any fence.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the woman to contact Ptlm. Cusano at 856-451-0033 ext. 0, or to send anonymous tips to BPD.TIPS.
Similar incident
This incident bears a resemblance to a 2019 occurrence at the Bronx Zoo in New York, where a woman climbed into a lion enclosure and stood mere feet away from one of the lions, appearing to taunt it.
The reckless behavior displayed in both incidents serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to safety guidelines when visiting zoos. The barriers are in place not just for the safety of the visitors, but also for the well-being of the animals.
As the search for the woman continues, zoo officials and law enforcement hope this incident will deter others from attempting similar dangerous actions.