A 36-year-old zoo guest, Naiphum Promratee, was mauled by a bear after he teased the animal with rice at a remote temple in rural Thailand.
Naiphum had visited the temple to see a “buffalo bear” that lived in a small enclosure with a community of monks. Upon seeing the 250kg bear confined in a cramped space, he decided to taunt it by dangling bowls of rice above its reach.
In response, the bear stood on its hind legs, grabbed him, and pulled him into the enclosure. Within seconds, Naiphum was knocked unconscious and mauled. The bear tore into his chest, causing severe injuries.
Horrifying footage captured the moment spectators tried desperately to scare the bear away, using poles and throwing cold water at it, but the animal continued its attack for almost a minute.
It eventually dragged Naiphum across the dusty enclosure, as one of his friends entered the cage and struck the bear with a pole to help with the rescue.
Emergency services arrived shortly after 11am local time, rushing Naiphum to the hospital, where he is now recovering and able to speak.
Dr. Kobchai Jirachanchai, Deputy Director of Phetchabun Hospital’s Medical Division, reported that Naiphum suffered deep wounds from the bear’s bites and claws, along with a punctured lung.
He also developed acute renal failure, though his condition is stable, and he is being monitored closely for the next 48 hours. The patient is responsive and interacting with visitors.
