But officials at the main U.S. body that oversees breeding of zoo animals said it was highly unlikely the western lowland gorilla’s contribution to the nation’s “frozen zoo” of genetic material of rare and endangered species would be used to breed. “We continue to praise God for His grace and mercy, and to be thankful to the Cincinnati Zoo for their actions taken to protect our child”.
Advertisement
Thane Maynard, the zoo’s director, stood by the decision to shoot the gorilla and denied claims it was negligent.
“Our child has had a checkup by his doctor and is still doing well. I need someone to contact the zoo, please”, the mother told an operator. Hamilton County prosecutor Joseph Deters said in a statement police would confer with his office after they had looked into the matter.
Meanwhile, a separate investigation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums will examine what led to the 17-year-old gorilla’s death.
“Gorillas are gentle, nurturing animals who attack only when provoked, and experts report that Harambe was likely trying to protect this child”, Brittany Peet of PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, said in a statement. In the midst of authorities investigating various aspects of the incident that involved a 4-yr-old boy falling into the enclosure of a 17-yr-old silver-back gorilla named Harambe – who ended up being shot and killed last Saturday (05-28-16) – the audio of the 911 call has been released.
Mounting outrage over the killing of Harambe has sparked criticism of the zoo and the child’s parents.
Since then, there have been numerous questions about the how the child got past the barriers around the exhibit.
The Cincinnati Police Department has also released recordings of emergency calls made by the child’s mother and witnesses.
“It is believed that the situation was caused by parental negligence and the zoo is not responsible for the child’s injuries and possible trauma”.
Staff shot the endangered gorilla to save a four-year-old boy who fell into the enclosure.
Asked to comment on Tuesday – as footage of the drama ran on a loop on USA television networks – Donald Trump said it appeared officials had no choice but to shoot the gorilla.
“We are also very appreciative for the expressions of concern and support that have been sent to us”, the statement continues. Cincinnati police are investigating the family, while federal inspectors will review the zoo.
Advertisement
According to CBS News, the family of the boy who fell into the gorilla exhibit does not plan on taking legal action against the zoo.
