The operator of an Oklahoma animal preserve died in an accident involving a tiger, officials say.

Ryan Easley, described as “a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation,” was killed in the Sept. 20 incident at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve, according to the wildlife refuge.

Choctaw County Sheriff Terry Park told KXII “Easley was doing an act with the tiger when something went wrong, resulting in him being attacked.”

The preserve did not release additional information about the fatal incident.

“His love for animals, especially Big Cats, was evident in every aspect of his life,” the preserve said in a Facebook post. “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 enri

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