MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. — A Washington Park Zoo wolf attack injured two zookeepers on Wednesday morning, June 3, 2026, after staff responded to the overnight death of a wolf inside the Michigan City, Indiana, zoo.
Both employees were taken to hospitals and were reported stable after the incident, which remains under review by zoo officials and local authorities.
What Happened in the Washington Park Zoo Wolf Attack
Zoo officials said one of the facility’s wolves died of natural causes overnight. The following morning, animal care staff entered or worked near the wolf enclosure while responding to that death.
During the response, other wolves in the enclosure attacked two employees. Authorities said a 39-year-old zoo worker suffered bite injuries to her neck and limbs but was able to escape the enclosure.
A second employee was bitten on the arm and climbed onto the roof of a structure inside the exhibit to avoid further injury. Emergency responders later used a ladder to remove the worker safely from the area.
Injured Zookeepers Listed as Stable
Both workers were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Officials said their conditions were stable after the attack.
Authorities have not said what triggered the wolves’ behavior or whether any enclosure procedure failed. The zoo said the matter remains under review and that more information will be released when available.
Wolf Exhibit Under Review After Indiana Zoo Incident
The incident has drawn attention to animal-care safety procedures at the Michigan City zoo, especially during emergency or sensitive situations involving large predators.
Officials have not announced any staffing or enclosure policy changes. The investigation is ongoing, and the zoo is expected to review the circumstances surrounding the wolf attack before deciding whether additional safety steps are needed.