Key takeaways:
- Jacob Pursifull was arrested on burglary, theft and trespass charges after being filmed breaking into Busch Gardens theme park and entering an alligator exhibit.
- The incident was captured on video and uploaded to social media, leading to speculation that the misguided stunt was performed in pursuit of social media fame.
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay released a statement on the incident, saying that they are “working with local law enforcement to ensure that the individual is held accountable for his actions.”
A 20-year-old Louisiana man is facing criminal charges after police said he was filmed breaking into Florida’s Busch Gardens theme park and entering an alligator exhibit.
Jacob Pursifull was arrested Monday on burglary, theft and trespass charges following the brazen stunt in Tampa on June 1, according to a Tuesday statement from city police. The incident was captured on video and uploaded to social media, leading to speculation that the misguided stunt was performed in pursuit of social media fame.
The video, believed to be from Pursifull’s TikTok account, appears to show the Louisiana man scaling a wall to enter the park. He then made his way to an alligator enclosure, where he was seen mimicking the accent and mannerisms of the late Australian wildlife enthusiast Steve Irwin.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay released a statement on the incident, saying that the safety of their guests and animals is their top priority. They said that they are “working with local law enforcement to ensure that the individual is held accountable for his actions.”
The incident is a reminder of the importance of respecting wildlife and their habitats. It is illegal to trespass on private property and enter animal enclosures, and those who do so can face serious legal consequences.
Be First to Comment