Tiger not intentionally let out of grotto

Zoo to reopen Thursday

Tatiana, a Siberian tiger, escaped from her grotto at the San Francisco Zoo
on Christmas Day killing one man and mauling two others
before authorities shot and killed the apex predator.
Photo courtesy siouxcityjournal.com

By Ari Burack

December 29, 2007

A police investigation at San Francisco Zoo revealed Friday that a Siberian tiger was not intentionally let out of its grotto on Christmas Day, when it killed a visitor and seriously injured two others.

San Francisco police Chief Heather Fong said the Police Department has completed its investigation on zoo grounds.

She said police wanted to determine whether anyone helped release the 4-year-old, 350 pound tiger Tatiana, or if there was any criminal conduct involved.

"Our investigation has found absolutely no link to any intentional release," Fong said.

She added that police are still conducting interviews and the criminal investigation will be drawing to a close shortly.

Fong and Zoo director Manuel Mollinedo took no questions from media at a press conference Friday.

Mollinedo said the zoo will reopen Thursday.

Fong has asked anyone who was at the Zoo Christmas Day and has information on the incident to contact (415) 553-1141 during business hours or the confidential tip line at (415) 575-4444.

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