Tiger Kills Growler Pines Owner Ryan Easley

Ryan Easley, 37, the owner and longtime handler at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve in Hugo, Oklahoma, was fatally mauled by a large tiger during the end of a big‑cat show on Saturday. Horrified onlookers — including his wife and young daughter — watched as deputies and emergency crews arrived minutes after an emergency call, but Easley was pronounced dead at the scene after the tiger bit and shook him around the neck and shoulder, authorities said. Growler Pines has canceled tours and animal encounters and called the death a 'painful reminder' of the unpredictability of working with wildlife. Investigators and federal agencies that issue permits for nonnative animals are involved in the probe. Several outlets reported Easley had acquired some tigers from former 'Tiger King' zoo operator Joe Exotic, who posted reactions on social media, and animal‑welfare groups including PETA urged exhibitors to move big cats to accredited sanctuaries.