Animal handler who worked with Tiger King's Joe Exotic killed by a tiger in his care

An animal handler who worked with Tiger King star Joe Exotic has been killed by a tiger in his care.

Ryan Easely, who worked at the Growlers Pines Tiger Preserve in Hugo, Oklahoma, was fatally attacked by a tiger at the refuge.

CNN affiliate KXII reported that Easley was performing an act with the tiger when "something went wrong" and he was attacked, according to Choctaw County Sheriff's office.

By the time emergency services arrived, he couldn't be saved.

PETA reported that Easly acquired the tigers at the retreat from Tiger King's Joe Exotic, 62, and Dr Bhagavan Antle, who both stared on the reality TV show for his business Show Me Tigers.

The tragic news was shared by the preserve on Facebook.

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"It is with profound sorrow that we confirm the tragic loss of Ryan Easley, who lost his life in an accident involving a tiger under his care at the Growler Pines Tiger Preserve on September 20th, 2025," read a post on the preserve's page.

"Ryan was a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation. His love for animals, especially Big Cats, was evident in every aspect of his life.

"He dedicated his life to the protection and care of these magnificent animals, and he believed deeply in the mission of Growler Pines- to provide a safe and forever enriching home for the animals under his care.

"Growler Pines was more than just a place of work for Ryan, it was his calling, his passion and his life's purpose. His courage, compassion and unwavering commitment to wildlife will never be forgotten.

"This tragedy is a painful reminder of both the beauty and unpredictability of the natural world. Ryan understood those risks- not out of recklessness but out of love.

"The animals under his care were not just animals to him, but beings he formed a connection with- one rooted in respect, daily care and love. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the animals he protected and the example he set for others who dedicate their lives to working with wildlife.

"We ask for privacy and compassion for his family during this incredibly difficult time.

"At this time all tours and encounters will be cancelled until further notice."

A crowdfunding page has been set up for Easly, on behalf of his wife Elaine.

"For years, the Easley family has poured their lives into the near-impossible task of running Growler Pines and its many beloved inhabitants," a statement on the page reads.

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"They have gone far beyond what was ever asked of them, sacrificing much and setting the very standard of excellence in stewardship, conservation, and care.

"Ryan's impact cannot be overstated. His dedication, his sacrifice, and his love for his work were unmatched. Anyone who met him could feel his passion – not only for the animals and his work – but even more so for his family."

"His love for Elaine and Lily shone above all else. Now, in this difficult time, we come together to surround Elaine and Lilly with the same love and support that Ryan gave so freely to the world around him.

PETA released a statement following confirmation of Easly's death claiming that he mistreated animals in his care, having made similar accusations of Joe Exotic.

"It's never safe for humans to interact directly with apex predators, and it's never a surprise when a human is attacked by a stressed big cat who has been caged, whipped, and denied everything natural and important to them," Debbie Metzler, Foundation Senior Director of Captive Wildlife, said in a statement.

Joe Exotic, whose real name is Joseph Maldonado-Passage, is currently serving a 21-year prison sentence over his murder-for-hire plot against his rival Carole Baskin, as well as animal trafficking and violations of the Endangered Species Act for killing and falsifying records for tigers. He was convicted in 2019.

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Tiger King premiered on Netflix in 2020 and quickly became one of the streaming service's most successful released to date.

It also stirred controversy over the keeping and handling of tigers, with Baskin speaking out against Joe Exotic.

Baskin runs an animal sanctuary for rescued tigers.

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