Statement by Craig Busch

“This is an absolutely tragic event for all involved.

“It is a terrible personal blow for me as I knew the keeper well. My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues. Obviously I also know all the animals at the park which are owned by my Wildlife Trust, and I am deeply upset at the news of this attack.

“I am available to assist the police and other authorities in any way as they deal with the shocking events of today. I am still unsure of the exact circumstances involved and cannot comment any further.

“The outstanding matters surrounding my ongoing involvement with the park are irrelevant in the context of what has happened today.”

Mr Busch’s lawyer Daniel Erickson added that contrary to media reports there was no one from the Employment Relations Authority at the park at the time of the attack.

“Mr Busch is obviously upset at what has happened, and aside from the comments above, he will not be making any further statement or answering media questions.”

Mr Busch is currently appearing before the Employment Relations Authority challenging his dismissal from the park in November 2008.

Mr Erickson acknowledged that one of the issues raised yesterday at the Authority by Mr Busch was safety.