Killer whale blamed for trainer’s death dies at SeaWorld attraction
A KILLER whale involved in the death of his trainer has died.
Tilikum was blamed for the death of SeaWorld worker Dawn Brancheau in 2010 at the Orlando tourist attraction. The whale was thought to have been 35 and it had been known he was dying for several months.
Tilikum, who had appeared in a TV documentary, was said to have died surrounded by his trainers, care staff and veterinarians that provided him aroundthe-clock care.
SeaWorld reported in March that the orca may be dying. It also announced then that it would no longer house the whales at its water parks.
SeaWorld president and chief executive Joel Manby said: “Tilikum had, and will continue to have, a special place in the hearts of the SeaWorld family, as well as the millions of people all over the world that he inspired. My heart goes out to our team who cared for him like family.”
The attraction has faced criticism about its treatment of killer whales since a documentary called Blackfish was released in 2013. The CNN programme raised ethical questions about the captivity of the killer whales. The water park operator responded to the film by calling it false, misleading and “emotionally manipulative” propaganda.
Later, when it made the decision to halt the orca programme, the firm said: “Why the big news? SeaWorld has been listening and we’re changing. Society is changing and we’re changing with it.”
Ms Brancheau, 40, drowned after being pulled into the water by Tilikum. The killer whale dragged her underwater and repeatedly struck her, as she performed with the whale.
The investigation into her death ruled Ms Brancheau died from drowning and traumatic injuries.