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Toddler Injured by Wolf; Parents Charged
7 Apr
Summary
- Toddler squeezed into restricted area near wolf enclosure.
- Parents allegedly distracted by cell phones during incident.
- Parents charged with endangering the welfare of children.
A 17-month-old child suffered injuries during a visit to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The incident occurred when the toddler managed to enter a restricted area adjacent to the wolf enclosure.
According to Derry Township Police, the child squeezed through a wooden barrier and reached the primary metal fence of the wolf exhibit. One of the wolves then grabbed the child's hand through the fencing.
The toddler's parents, Carrie Sortor and Stephen Wilson, were reportedly about 30 feet away on a bench and allegedly distracted by their cell phones. Police stated they only looked up when they heard a commotion.
Both parents have been charged with child endangerment. Police noted warning signs in the area advising parental supervision. Zoo officials confirmed the child's injuries were minor and that the youngster did not enter the wolf enclosure itself.
ZooAmerica houses over 200 native North American animals, including three gray wolves. The zoo spokesperson reiterated that animal well-being and visitor safety are top priorities, describing the wolf's action as consistent with natural behavior.
