In a heart-wrenching tragedy at Safari World Bangkok, a veteran zookeeper lost his life in a shocking lion attack on the morning of September 10, 2025. The incident, described as the first of its kind in the zoo’s 40-year history, unfolded before the eyes of stunned visitors, leaving a somber mark on one of Thailand’s most popular attractions.
The victim, 58-year-old Jian Rangkharasamee, had dedicated two decades of his life to caring for animals at Safari World Bangkok. Known for his experience and passion, Jian’s life was tragically cut short around 11 a.m. when he stepped out of his vehicle in the safari zone. According to a report by Khaosod English, Jian had bent down to pick something up, momentarily turning his back on the lions. In that fleeting moment, one lion seized the opportunity, approaching silently from behind, grabbing him, and dragging him to the ground.
What began as a single lion’s attack quickly escalated as three to four others joined, their primal instincts overriding any familiarity with their keeper. The assault lasted a harrowing 15 minutes, unfolding in the drive-through lion enclosure, where visitors watched in disbelief from the safety of their vehicles.
Colonel Dr. Thawatchai Kanchanarin, a witness to the incident, recounted the confusion among onlookers. “People thought the lions might just be trying to embrace him, so no one approached the area,” he said. Many mistook the initial attack for playful behavior, a testament to the deceptive calm before the tragedy became clear.
Safari World’s strict safety protocols prohibit visitors from exiting their vehicles or lowering their windows in the wild animal zones. As the reality of the attack set in, some visitors began honking their car horns in a desperate attempt to scare the lions away, but their efforts were in vain. The relentless attack continued until another caretaker could finally reach Jian. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, but despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
The incident occurred during the lions’ feeding time, a period when their instincts are heightened. Department Director-General Attapol Charoenchansa, quoted in the Bangkok Post, suggested that one lion may have been “not in a good mood,” triggering the attack. In response, Safari World has temporarily closed the drive-in zone to visitors, pending a thorough review of safety measures.
In a statement shared with Kapook, Safari World Bangkok expressed profound grief over the loss of their beloved staff member. “The company would like to express its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and will provide the best possible care and support to the family,” the statement read. The zoo emphasized that the lions and other animals remain in normal condition and are under close observation by experts.
Safari World underscored that this was the first such incident in its four-decade history, highlighting its longstanding commitment to safety. “The company places the highest priority on the safety of all visitors and staff, emphasizing the importance of not getting out of vehicles while visiting the open zoo, especially in the wild animal zone,” the statement continued. The zoo has pledged to urgently investigate the incident and enhance safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
The loss of Jian Rangkharasamee has cast a shadow over Safari World Bangkok, a place where families and tourists come to marvel at the beauty and strength of wildlife. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of wild animals, even in environments designed to balance human interaction with animal welfare. As the zoo community mourns, questions linger about how such a seasoned keeper fell victim to the very animals he cared for, and what measures will ensure such a tragedy never happens again.
