A man in South Carolina has reportedly died following a suspected kangaroo attack after entering an animal enclosure at a local petting zoo.
According to the Horry County Police Department, the body of 52-year-old Eric Slate was discovered inside an enclosure housing kangaroos and wallabies of various ages at 5-Star Farms, located off Highway 746 near Loris. The incident occurred on the evening of Friday, May 9.
An autopsy later confirmed that Slate died from “multiple blunt force injuries.” Police noted that all animals at the location were accounted for and secured, assuring the public that there was “no risk to the community.”
Slate was reportedly a relative of the farm’s owner. Local councilman Dennis DiSabato confirmed to News 13 that a kangaroo was “directly involved” in the fatal incident.
In a statement, authorities said: “The incident occurred late Friday evening between a non-domesticated animal and an adult relative of the animal’s owner in the animal’s enclosure. The Horry County Coroner’s Office responded and has ordered an autopsy.”
The farm had previously posted a photo of a kangaroo named Mr. Jack on social media, describing him as friendly and fond of neck scratches and treats. It is unclear whether Mr. Jack was the animal involved in the attack.
The circumstances surrounding Slate’s entry into the enclosure and what triggered the kangaroo’s aggressive behavior remain unknown. No legal actions or decisions regarding the animals have been announced at this time.
