A tragic incident in Brazil is drawing attention to the importance of safety around wildlife and the challenges faced by vulnerable young people. A 19-year-old man, Gerson Machado, was killed after climbing into a lioness’s enclosure at a zoo in João Pessoa. Visitors watched in shock as he scaled a high wall, used a tree to lower himself inside, and was attacked almost immediately. Zoo staff say they tried to stop him, but he acted too quickly.

Machado had a long history of troubled behavior and severe mental health struggles. He grew up in deep poverty, spent much of his life in care, and had no stable family support. Social workers say he had an intense fixation on lions and dreamed of becoming a trainer. He once attempted to reach Africa by hiding in the landing gear of a plane. Police had previously detained him for minor offenses connected to these obsessions.

Officials believe his final act may have been intentional, noting that he had repeatedly breached animal enclosures before. After the attack, the zoo closed for investigation, and the lioness—shaken but unharmed—was safely returned to her pen without sedatives.

For adults, especially those raising children or supporting vulnerable people, this tragedy highlights several key reminders. Respect barriers and safety rules around wildlife, no matter how familiar or trained an animal might seem. Take mental health concerns seriously, particularly when someone shows risky or obsessive behavior. And if you see someone attempting to bypass safety structures—whether at a zoo, park, or public area—alert staff immediately rather than assuming it will resolve on its own.

Experts say wild animals behave on instinct, not intention. When humans ignore safety boundaries, the outcome is often disastrous for both people and animals.