A tiger handler who was an “associate” of “Tiger King” star Joe Exotic was fatally mauled by a big cat under his care at an Oklahoma preserve over the weekend, according to authorities.

Ryan Easley died after a tiger attacked him during an “accident” on Saturday at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve in Hugo, the preserve wrote in a Facebook post.

“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,” Growler Pines Tiger Preserve wrote. 3

“The animals under his care were not just animals to him, but beings he formed a connection with- one rooted in respect, daily care, and love,” the preserve said.

The center, where people can book guided outings and watch demonstrations o

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