Tragic Incident at Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara
A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at the Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara, commonly known as Bica, in João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil. A 19-year-old man, identified as Gerson de Melo Machado, also referred to as 'Vaqueirinho,' died after intentionally invading the enclosure of a lioness named Leona. The zoo has been closed to the public indefinitely following the event, pending a full investigation.
Details of the Invasion
According to official reports and eyewitness accounts, the man deliberately bypassed multiple security measures to gain access to the lioness's habitat. He reportedly scaled a wall exceeding 6 meters in height (some sources indicate 8 meters), climbed security grates, and utilized a tree within the enclosure to descend into the restricted area. Upon entering, he was attacked by the lioness, sustaining fatal injuries. The incident caused panic among visitors who were present at the time.
Investigation and Zoo Response
The Civil Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the man's death. Initial findings from the police suggest the possibility of a 'possible act of suicide.' The Municipal Secretariat of Environment (Semam) is also conducting its own inquiry into the incident.
The Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara issued a statement expressing solidarity with the victim's family and clarifying that, despite adhering to 'technical norms and rigorous security standards,' the man 'insisted on the invasion.' However, some reports have raised questions regarding the ease with which the man accessed the enclosure, suggesting potential security vulnerabilities.
Condition of the Animal and Victim's Background
The lioness involved in the incident, Leona, is reported to be in good health and has been moved to a reserved area where she is being monitored by veterinarians. The victim, Gerson de Melo Machado, reportedly had a history of arrests and was said to be suffering from mental health issues. He had been released from prison just two days prior to the incident.
5 Comments
Michelangelo
It's undeniably tragic that he intentionally entered the enclosure, suggesting a desperate act. However, the zoo still needs to seriously re-evaluate how someone could bypass so many 'security measures'.
Leonardo
The lioness was just acting on instinct, and it's a relief she's unharmed, but the situation is deeply tragic for the man and his family. We need to consider how to prevent such desperate acts while also ensuring zoos are absolutely impenetrable for both public and animal safety.
Donatello
More could have been done to prevent this. It shouldn't have happened.
Kyle Broflovski
6-8 meter wall is nothing if he could still get in. Security clearly failed.
Eric Cartman
It's heartbreaking to hear about his mental health struggles and recent release from prison, which likely contributed to his actions. This incident highlights not just zoo security issues, but also the dire need for better mental health support systems in society.