A Spanish zookeeper was left with severe chest and head injuries after being mauled by a 440 pound gorilla who broke through three security doors according to officials.
The 46 year old keeper was serving breakfast at the Madrid Zoo Aquarium when she was surprised by 29 year old great ape Malabo, in what should have been a secure area.
“The zoo team managed to separate the animal from her and later, a veterinary anaesthetized it with a tranquilizer dart,” the zoo said.
Malabo who was raised at the zoo since his birth was then taken to it’s pen where it remained calm. The gorilla was also described as being close generally to his caregivers.
The attacked worker who was not identified, but had worked in the zoo for 19 years suffered chest and head injuries as well as two broken arms and remain in serious condition in a hospital.
Police and the zoo said they were investigating how the gorilla was able to enter the enclosure which is protected with a triple door.
