Superintendent: wolf died at Washington Park Zoo; incident involving other wolves and staff under investigation

The Michigan City Parks & Recreation superintendent reported June 3 that a wolf at Washington Park Zoo died of natural causes and that, following that death, an incident involving other wolves and animal-care staff occurred.

Reading a press release dated June 3, Miss Eason said: "A wolf passed away last night from natural causes at the Washington Park Zoo. Following that loss, an incident occurred involving other wolves and members of our animal care staff. At this time, all involved are stable. The matter remains under review and investigation, and additional information will be released as it becomes available." She also said the main wolf exhibit was closed while staff continued to monitor the animals and assess the situation.

Eason added that zoo staff, emergency responders, veterinary personnel and supporting agencies responded quickly and professionally. She said the zoo remained open but closed the main wolf exhibit, and that the situation is under investigation.

The superintendent's report also listed zoo operational updates: completion of Millennium Plaza fountain demolition, foundation work starting on the Wings of Wonder exhibit, receipt of two rescued male Canada lynx from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, arrival of lemurs released to Monkey Island May 29, and construction of a new interior viewing platform for the upper aviary. She also reported vandalism May 27 on the Singing Sands Trail (estimated $1,500 in damages) and that Lake Michigan water-quality testing is under way with IDEM funding.

Why it matters: The reported death and subsequent incident raise animal welfare and staff-safety questions; the board was told the matter is under review and more information will be released as available.

What’s next: The zoo and relevant agencies will continue investigating; the board recorded the report and did not take additional formal action at the meeting.