Eric Slate, a 52-year-old man, unfortunately, succumbed to his fatal blunt force injuries. The attack happened when the kangaroo got the drop on him at a children’s zoo in South Carolina. The shooting, which reportedly brought the Horry County police department’s initial investigation to within close proximity of midnight on Friday, triggered an immediate response by local officials.
According to eyewitnesses, Slate was inside the kangaroo enclosure when the attack occurred. The Horry County police department has acknowledged that they are currently investigating the homicide. They’re already staying active to get more information about the incident.
The farm’s owners have stated that the kangaroo, named Jack, “was not nor has been out of his secure enclosure,” suggesting that safety measures were in place at the time of the incident. They emphasized their commitment to animal welfare, noting that they “have been dedicated to providing a safe and enriching environment for animals and visitors alike.”
Council member Mark Causey, of Horry County, calmed the waters by announcing that Jack was fine. He assured everyone that the kangaroo wasn’t euthanized following the encounter. He acknowledged that deadly human-animal interactions at U.S. petting zoos are infrequent. At the same time, he acknowledged that although these incidents are rare, they do happen.
It’s a heartbreaking reminder of a terrible incident that occurred in 2022. At that time, a camel that escaped its pen at Shirley Farms in Obion County, Tennessee ended up having to be euthanized after killing two men. Yet public officials, under pressure, promised that they would act. Then, they will evaluate the habitats and situation at the zoo where Slate tragically lost his life.
“We are still in shock and grieving,” said his brother, Robert Slate, who shared affectionate statements about his brother’s adventurous spirit.
“My brother, my friend, my rock, you left us with a smile on your face that won’t be forgotten.” – Robert Slate
He shared sentiments regarding Jack, stating, “Your memory will live on, your voice will be heard, and Jack (your buddy, the kangaroo) will be fine.”
We want to thank the Horry County police department for moving quickly to investigate all aspects of this tragic case. In the meantime, officials are scheduling inspections of the zoo to make sure that safety measures are being consistently followed. As investigations move forward, the community pays respect to the memory of Eric Slate. Together, they write powerfully about the important role of safety in places where humans and animals intersect.