Doncaster health authority confirms safety probe after tiger death tragedy
William’s family had raised concerns about his contact with mental health services in Doncaster
A Doncaster health authority has confirmed that it has launched an investigation into the mental health care of William Chapman, the man mauled to death by a tiger at Doncaster’s Yorkshire Wildlife Park.
Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) has said that an independent patient safety investigation has been launched following Saturday’s tragedy.
At an inquest opening this morning, it was confirmed that 24-year-old William had suffered with mental health problems for a significant amount of time and had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and had suffered several episode of psychosis.
The hearing was told that his family had raised concerns about the contact William of Consort House, Waterdale, had had with mental health services in the city.
A spokesperson for Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) said: “Our deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of William Chapman.
“We continue to respect and protect patient confidentiality at all times and cannot comment on William’s care.
“Following the incident, RDaSH has commissioned an independent patient safety incident investigation with agreement from other agencies.
“This remains underway.
“William’s family are aware and will be fully supported to participate in the process.
“RDaSH won’t be commenting further on William’s care or the investigation, and we ask that the privacy of those involved is respected at this difficult time.”
Chapman was under adult mental health services in Doncaster but was "highly functioning and independent with no care requirements", the inquest heard.
The self-employed online trader was born in Chichester, West Sussex, and living in Doncaster at the time of his death.
Coroner's officer Caitlin Brookes said his family had expressed "a number of concerns" in relation to his contact with mental health services, with the trust launching an investigation following his death.
After opening the inquest, which Mr Chapman's family chose not to attend, on Thursday morning, Senior Coroner Ncola Mundy adjourned proceedings until 18 March 2027.