A routine afternoon at Greenwood Wildlife Sanctuary turned terrifying when 34-year-old Mark Turner ignored warning signs and climbed into the gorilla enclosure. Witnesses watched in horror as Koba, a 220-kg silverback, grabbed Mark and dragged him several meters before staff intervened.
Paramedics arrived to find Mark bloodied but conscious, with a dislocated shoulder, lacerations, and a concussion. He was rushed to St. Mary’s Regional Hospital and is expected to recover fully. Investigators confirmed Mark deliberately ignored barriers, prompting discussions about human recklessness around wildlife.
Sanctuary staff used distractions, not force, to protect both Mark and Koba—a decision praised by experts and animal rights groups. Mark later expressed deep remorse for his actions, thanking staff and apologizing to witnesses.
The sanctuary reinforced safety measures, adding railings, cameras, and automated warnings. Koba has returned to his usual routine, unaffected by the incident. The episode serves as a stark reminder: wildlife is powerful and unpredictable, and respect for boundaries is essential for human and animal safety.
A plaque now stands near Koba’s enclosure: “Respect the Wild. Safety Protects Us All.” For Mark, surviving the ordeal was a life-changing lesson in humility and caution.