Tragedy struck at a popular South Carolina petting zoo when a man known for “playing rough” with a kangaroo was found dead inside the animal’s enclosure.
Eric Slate, 52, was discovered with multiple blunt force injuries Friday evening at 5 Star Farm, a family-owned petting zoo located roughly 30 miles outside Myrtle Beach, according to reports from Fox Carolina.
Slate, who was related to the zoo’s owner, had a documented history of entering the pen to interact with the kangaroo in a rough and risky manner, sources say.
The kangaroo believed to have caused Slate’s fatal injuries has not been euthanized, Horry County Councilmember Mark Causey confirmed to News13. Authorities are still investigating the incident, and an autopsy has been scheduled to determine the official cause of death.
In a Facebook post, Robert Slate, owner of 5 Star Farm, stated, “The animal was not, nor has ever been, outside of its secure enclosure. At this time, we ask for privacy and support as our family navigates this tragedy.”
The long-running petting zoo… in operation for over 15 years… features a variety of animals, including camels, ponies, llamas, wallabies, and kangaroos. Police assured the public there is no threat to the community, noting, “All animals are accounted for and contained.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
