A seemingly innocent trip to the circus turned into a nightmare for a three-year-old boy named Vova in Angarsk, Russia.
On a day without performances, Vova’s father convinced some friends to let a panther out of its cage for a closer look.
This impulsive decision resulted in the panther attacking the young boy, leaving him with severe injuries.
A Scary Encounter
While exploring the circus grounds, Vova posed next to the panther, unaware of the danger he was in.
Suddenly, the animal attacked, inflicting deep lacerations on his face, head, back, and legs.
With blood streaming from his wounds, the terrified child was quickly rushed to the hospital.
Medical staff worked to stitch up his numerous injuries, all while monitoring him for any potential rabies exposure.
A Mother’s Shock
Vova’s mother, Svetlana, was horrified to learn about the incident.
She revealed that she had no idea her ex-husband had taken their son to the circus.
“I wouldn’t have allowed him to go if I had known,” she stated.
According to her, the father had friends at the circus who facilitated the panther’s release.
The image of her bloodied child in the arms of a witness was devastating for her, as reports indicated that Vova was in tears, covered in blood.
Investigations and Consequences
As news of the incident spread, Vova’s mother took action, filing a complaint against the circus with state prosecutors.
Witnesses reported seeing Vova bandaged and playing quietly in his hospital bed, showing signs of resilience despite the traumatic event.
While the circus features a variety of acts—including aerial gymnasts, illusionists, and exotic animals—a representative insisted that a panther was not part of their official performances.
However, it was reported that the panther belonged to a performer and was only shown to Vova at his father’s request.
Now, the Russian Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case against the circus.
If the panther’s owner is found guilty of negligence, they could face up to six years in prison.
What Comes Next?
As the investigation unfolds, questions about safety regulations and the responsibilities of those who work with dangerous animals loom large.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of the potential risks involved in circus environments, particularly when proper protocols are not followed.