Full Breakdown
Parents Charged After Toddler Injured by Wolf at ZooAmerica
4/7/2026, 8:52:50 AM
Incident Overview
On April 4, 2026, a 17-month-old toddler was injured after crawling under a perimeter fence and reaching into a wolf enclosure at ZooAmerica in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The child, identified as being unsupervised, managed to squeeze through a small opening in the wooden barrier and put their hand through the primary metal fence surrounding the wolf habitat. A wolf then instinctively grabbed the child's hand with its mouth, resulting in minor injuries. Bystanders intervened to pull the child away from the enclosure.
Parental Charges
The child's parents, Carrie Sortor, 43, and Stephen Wilson, 61, both from Lititz, Pennsylvania, have been charged with one count each of endangering the welfare of children. According to the Derry Township Police Department, the couple was approximately 25 to 30 feet away from their child, reportedly distracted by their cellphones when the incident occurred. Police Chief Garth Warner noted that there are clear signs advising parents to supervise their children closely, which the couple allegedly failed to follow.
ZooAmerica's Response
ZooAmerica, operated by Hershey Entertainment and Resorts, stated that the child's injuries were minor and confirmed that the child was never inside the wolf's enclosure. A spokesperson emphasized that the wolf's behavior was consistent with natural animal instincts and not a sign of aggression. The zoo reiterated its commitment to visitor safety, highlighting that habitats are designed with multiple layers of protection and that guests are expected to remain within designated areas.
Criticism and Safety Concerns
This incident has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of parents in public spaces, particularly in environments where wild animals are present. Critics argue that distracted parenting poses significant risks, as evidenced by this incident. The charges against Sortor and Wilson raise questions about parental liability and the need for stricter supervision of children in zoos.
Official Statements
Hershey Entertainment and Resorts expressed relief that the child's injuries were not serious, stating, "The safety of our guests and the well-being of our animals are always our highest priorities." The zoo also noted, "Guests are expected to remain within designated areas and closely supervise children at all times."
What's Next
The Derry Township Police Department is actively seeking witnesses or anyone with video footage of the incident to come forward. The parents are scheduled for a preliminary hearing, and the outcome of the charges will likely draw public attention regarding parental supervision in public attractions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “an unsupervised 18-month-old child was able to crawl under an exterior perimeter fence, travel to the primary metal enclosure surrounding the wolf habitat, and put his hand through that fence. A wolf approached and made contact with the child’s hand. This type of response is consistent with natural animal behavior and was not a sign of aggression.” — ZooAmerica Spokesperson
- “Obviously, they did not follow those instructions.” — Derry Township Police Chief Garth Warner
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance when supervising young children, especially in settings that involve wildlife.
