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Toddler Injured in Wolf Enclosure at ZooAmerica
6 Apr
Summary
- A 17-month-old child squeezed through a fence into a wolf exhibit.
- The child sustained minor injuries after a wolf grabbed their hand.
- Parents face charges for endangering the welfare of a child.
In an incident at ZooAmerica, a 17-month-old child was injured after gaining access to a wolf enclosure. The toddler reportedly squeezed through an exterior perimeter fence and approached the primary metal enclosure of the wolf habitat.
The child then placed a hand through the metal fence, at which point a wolf made contact with the child's hand. Zoo officials stated this was consistent with natural animal behavior. Bystanders assisted in separating the child from the enclosure.
As a result of the incident, the child's parents, Carrie B. Sortor and Stephen J.B. Wilson, have each been charged with a first-degree misdemeanor count of endangering the welfare of children.
The zoo emphasized that safety is a top priority and that habitats are designed with multiple layers of protection and clear signage. Guests are expected to supervise children closely and remain within designated viewing areas.
