Ryan Easley, known for his connections to Tiger King star Joe Exotic, tragically lost his life in a tiger attack earlier this year.
The Tulsa Medical Examiner confirmed that Easy, 37, died from “blunt force, sharp force, and crushing injuries” sustained during a mauling at Growler Pines Tiger Preserve in Hugo, Oklahoma.
The incident occurred on September 20 while Easley was performing in front of a live audience that included his wife, Elaine, and their young daughter, Lily.
Fatal Incident During Live Performance
Choctaw County Sheriff Terry Park told ABC that Easley was unexpectedly bitten on the neck and shoulder by one of the preserve’s tigers, causing almost instant death.
His wife rushed into the cage and managed to remove the animal, but it was too late.
Easley was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after the attack, which was reported around 2 p.m.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, which licenses Growler Pines, has launched an investigation into the incident.
A Life Dedicated to Big Cats
Easley came from a family familiar with working with animals—his father reportedly worked as a zookeeper with elephants.
Inspired by a circus visit at age 21, Easley began an apprenticeship with a tiger trainer.
After his mentor retired in 2011, Easley launched a traveling show called ShowMe Tigers.
When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted live performances, he established Growler Pines, creating a permanent home for his big cats and continuing his passion for wildlife.
Joe Exotic Acknowledges the Loss
Joseph Maldonado, famously known as Joe Exotic from the Netflix series Tiger King, publicly acknowledged Easley’s death in a now-deleted social media post.
“Prayers go out to his family,” Maldonado wrote.
“Ryan took great care of his animals! He loved every one of those tigers and was an advocate for tigers as well as elephants.”
Controversy and Criticism from PETA
Easley’s work with big cats was not without controversy.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) criticized him, alleging he acquired tigers from Joe Exotic and fellow Tiger King figure Bhagavan “Doc” Antle for his business, ShowMe Tigers.
PETA claimed Easley forced tigers to perform in circuses, kept them confined in cages for long periods, and allegedly whipped them during training sessions.
The organization called on remaining roadside zoos to shut down and send their animals to accredited sanctuaries.
Joe Exotic Responds to Criticism
Maldonado, currently serving a 21-year prison sentence, pushed back on PETA’s claims via social media.
According to The Oklahoman, he stated, “Ryan built a huge compound to keep his tigers in on the backside of my zoo. PETA doesn’t know crap.”
Maldonado was convicted on 19 federal counts, including wildlife crimes and a widely publicized murder-for-hire case involving his rival, Carole Baskin.
Remembering Easley’s Passion and Legacy
Despite the controversies, Easley is remembered by many as a devoted animal lover.
Growler Pines described him as a passionate wildlife advocate whose dedication to animals and family was unmatched.
A GoFundMe page established for his family has raised over $15,000 toward a $20,000 goal, with supporters praising Easley’s devotion to his loved ones and the animals under his care.
A Life Cut Short by Tragedy
Ryan Easley’s death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in working closely with powerful predators.
While his life was filled with passion for wildlife, it ended in an instant, leaving family, fans, and the animal community mourning a devoted caretaker and performer.
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