Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Tiger Kills Trainer During Oklahoma Demonstration, Sparks Outcry

9/24/2025

42 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Ryan Easley, 37, was killed by a tiger during a demonstration at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve, Oklahoma, on September 20, 2025.
Easley ran ShowMe Tigers and sourced tigers from Joe Exotic and Doc Antle.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) urged ending wild-animal exhibitions; Joe Exotic offered condolences but denied current involvement beyond past tiger arrangements.

History

Historical Context

The 2011 Ohio tiger escape raised alarms about the risks of private exotic animal ownership, leading to over 1,000 reported incidents involving captive big cats by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The death of Ryan Easley at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare and public safety, prompting calls for stricter regulations on wild-animal exhibitions, supported by organizations like PETA.

1 of 2

Story summary

Ryan Easley, 37, was killed by a tiger during a demonstration at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve, Oklahoma, on September 20, 2025.
Easley ran ShowMe Tigers and sourced tigers from Joe Exotic and Doc Antle.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) urged ending wild-animal exhibitions; Joe Exotic offered condolences but denied current involvement beyond past tiger arrangements.

1 / 2