An employee at John Ball Zoo was assaulted yesterday by a man who was reportedly in an unauthorized area of the property, law enforcement officials said. The Grand Rapids Police Department was called to the scene near Fulton Street West and Valley Avenue SW, after a female staff member was attacked by the suspect just after 3 p.m., as reported by WWMT.
The assault occurred close to a service entrance where, after the incident, fellow zoo employees stepped in to assist and the attacker fled. Nevertheless, the suspect was apprehended by police shortly thereafter. Andy McIntyre, the Chief Operating Officer of John Ball Zoo, confirmed the assault, saying, "In an area surrounding a service entrance to the zoo," the crime took place, as per a report by WWMT.
The victim was hospitalized for an evaluation of non-life-threatening injuries, as stated by WZZM 13. Authorities are continuing to investigate the assault, and the zoo is reviewing the situation to prevent further incidents. "Our thoughts are with [the employee] at this time, and we will continue to do everything we can to support our team," McIntyre expressed in a statement obtained by FOX 17.
Reiterating the zoo's commitment to safety, McIntyre assured the public that measures were in place to protect all visitors, employees, and the animals living at the zoo. He stated, "At John Ball Zoo, the safety of our guests, team members and animals is our top priority," as noted by WZZM 13. Details about the suspect's identity or the exact circumstances leading up to the assault have not been released, as the investigation is ongoing.
