HUGO, Okla. (KFOR) – A man was killed on Saturday by a tiger in his care at an animal preserve in Oklahoma.

The incident happened at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve in Hugo.

The facility said Ryan Easley, the caretaker, died during what they called "an accident" involving the tiger, per a statement shared to social media. The statement did not elaborate on the circumstances surrounding the accident.

"Ryan was a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation," the preserve's statement reads, in part. "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

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