Tiger Caretaker killed at Oklahoma Preserve

On Saturday, September 20th, Oklahoma tiger caretaker Ryan Easley was killed in an accident involving a tiger at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve in Hugo, Oklahoma. The wildlife refugee posted a statement on Facebook.

"This tragedy is a painful reminder of both the beauty and unpredictability of the natural world. Ryan understood those risks- not out of recklessness but out of love.”

Ryan Easley took care of multiple tigers throughout his lifetime. In the 2000s, he had connections to Joe Exotic, a man popularized by starring in the Tiger King documentary on Netflix, which was released in 2020.

Easley took great pride in his job, as stated by Growler Pines.

“Ryan was a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation. His love for animals, especially Big Cats, was evident in every aspect of his life. He dedicated his life to the protection and care of these magnificent animals, and he believed deeply in the mission of Growler Pines — to provide a safe and forever enriching home for the animals under his care.”

The facility opened in 2021, being owned and operated by Easley, and his wife Elaine, since then. They provided guided tours and also showed a few retired circus tigers. All upcoming tours have been cancelled and tickets have been refunded.

Written by: Mason Miles