Man found dead in kangaroo, wallaby enclosure in South Carolina
A tragic incident occurred at 5 Star Farm, a petting zoo located in South Carolina, where a man was found dead with multiple blunt force injuries in a kangaroo and wallaby enclosure. The victim, identified as 52-year-old Eric Slate, was a relative of the animal’s owner.
According to reports, Slate had a “history” of entering the enclosure to play rough with one of the animals. The fatal encounter took place on a Friday evening, sending shockwaves through the local community. The animal believed to be responsible for Slate’s death has not been euthanized, as confirmed by Horry County Councilmember Mark Causey.
5 Star Farm is a popular petting zoo that features a variety of animals, including camels, ponies, and llamas. The farm has been in operation for over 15 years, hosting events and providing a fun and interactive experience for visitors.
The investigation into Slate’s death is ongoing, with an autopsy ordered by Horry County Police to determine the exact cause of death. Despite the tragic incident, all other animals at the farm are safe and accounted for, with no risk to the community.
Robert Slate, the owner of 5 Star Farm, took to Facebook to address the incident, emphasizing that the animal responsible for Slate’s death had not escaped its secure enclosure. He requested respect and support for the family during this difficult time.
The Horry County Police Department, the Horry County Coroner’s Office, and 5 Star Farm have not yet responded to requests for comment from Fox News Digital. As the community grapples with this heartbreaking event, authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of both visitors and animals at the petting zoo.
In conclusion, this tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting boundaries and guidelines when interacting with animals, especially in a controlled environment like a petting zoo. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of Eric Slate during this difficult time.
