Ammon News - A man has been killed in a savage lioness attack after he scaled the 20-foot wall of a zoo in a complex bid to enter the big cat's enclosure.

The man died after breaking into the zoo in Parque Arruda Câmara, known as Bica, in João Pessoa, Brazil, after scaling the more than six-metre wall and passing through security fences. He entered the enclosure after clambering over a tree, with the lioness descending on him the moment his feet touched the ground.

Gruesome images captured the moment the beast set upon him, prompting a massive emergency response, including military police, who were among those rushing to the scene.

Local outlet TV Cabo Branco reported that the unnamed man may have had mental health issues, and the zoo was closed following the attack, with the Institute of Forensic Science of Paraíba (IPC) investigating. Zoo representatives said in a statement that consoldences have been sent to the man's family, and that the park "deeply regrets the incident".

The spokesperson said: "This is an extremely sad episode for everyone, and we express our solidarity and condolences to the family and friends of the man, who has not yet been identified. As soon as the incident was reported, the park was immediately closed, following all safety protocols."

The statement added: "Bica will remain closed to visitors until the conclusion of the investigations and official procedures, prioritizing transparency and commitment to the safety of our visitors, employees and animals.

The Mirror