A toddler sustained injuries after a concerning incident at ZooAmerica in Hershey, Pennsylvania, where they gained access to a wolf enclosure. The child, aged 17 months, was injured when they slipped through a gap in a perimeter fence, managed to enter a restricted area, and put their hand through the enclosure fence. Fortunately, nearby visitors intervened and were able to pull the child to safety.
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The Derry Township Police Department reported the incident occurred on Saturday, 4 April, around 11:35 a.m. As the family was visiting the zoo, the toddler was reportedly left unsupervised while the parents moved to a nearby seating area. Authorities indicated that both parents appeared engrossed in their mobile devices at the critical moment when the child wandered off.
Once the child had accessed the wolf exhibit area, the animal made contact with the child’s hand, leading to injuries that, while moderate, were not classified as serious. The police pointed out that the wolf’s behaviour was instinctual rather than aggressive, highlighting the importance of understanding wild animal responses.
The child was treated following the incident, and they are expected to recover, thanks in part to the quick actions of onlookers who responded to the situation. However, the consequences of parental distraction have become a focal point in the subsequent investigation. The child’s parents, Carrie B. Sortor and Stephen J. B. Wilson, both from Lititz, Pennsylvania, are facing charges of endangering the welfare of a child.
As part of their inquiry, law enforcement reviewed evidence indicating that the parents had left the child unattended for several moments while they relaxed some distance away. The Derry Township Police Chief, Garth Warner, confirmed that the parents would face a preliminary hearing following a summons-related to the incident. It remains unclear whether they have sought legal counsel.
ZooAmerica is a wildlife park housing approximately 200 animals that are native to North America. Located on an 11-acre site adjacent to Hersheypark, it operates as part of the Hershey Entertainment and Resorts group. In response to the incident, a spokesperson for the zoo expressed their concern and shared details regarding the safety measures in place.
“The safety of our guests and the wellbeing of our animals are always our highest priorities,” the spokesperson stated. They went on to clarify that the zoo’s enclosures are designed with several layers of protection, alongside clear signage intended to guide visitors. In light of the incident, they emphasised the expectation that guests should remain in designated areas and closely supervise their children at all times.
The spokesperson further remarked that the incident underscored the need for vigilance when visiting wildlife parks. “Our habitats are designed to ensure safe viewing, and it is crucial that parents maintain a watchful eye on their young ones.”
Following the incident, authorities are appealing for witnesses who may have additional information to come forward. Individuals with details are encouraged to contact Sergeant Dennis Eckenrode at the Derry Township Police Department.
The incident has raised serious discussions regarding parental responsibilities in public spaces, especially around potentially hazardous areas such as animal exhibitions. As families head out to enjoy recreational facilities, this event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of constant supervision and adherence to safety protocols.