A crocodile handler has died after being attacked by the reptile during a feeding demonstration at Adventure Park in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The incident occurred Saturday afternoon when the handler was attempting to feed a crocodile a chicken inside its enclosure.
Eyewitnesses reported that the crocodile grabbed the handler's legs and pulled him into the water. He remained trapped in the animal's jaws for over an hour before bystanders intervened. One witness described the handler as being in severe pain and unable to scream. Another bystander assisted by offering a pole, and a second person held onto the handler's arms to prevent him from being dragged further into the water.
Police reportedly shot the crocodile to free the man. He was transported to 3 Mile General Hospital by ambulance, where he was treated for his injuries. He succumbed to his injuries Sunday morning. Reports indicate that the man lost a leg as a result of the attack. He had been employed at the park for approximately two years and was from the Western Islands region of Papua New Guinea.
The park was closed until further notice following the incident, and staff gathered at a funeral home on Sunday. Adventure Park is described on Papua New Guinea’s official travel website as a family attraction offering rides, wildlife, gardens, and outdoor adventure. The park is known for its crocodile feeding demonstrations, which involve close interaction between staff and the animals.