Over ten years ago, a tragic incident unfolded at SeaWorld, shocking park guests as they witnessed an orca fatally injure a trainer.
In March 2010, trainer Dawn Brancheau faced a tragic fate when she was seized and dragged underwater by Tilikum, a 12,000-pound killer whale also known as “Tilly”.
Paying guests at SeaWorld were often treated to performances by the whales under the stage name “Shamu”.
After investigating the incident, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enacted a ban prohibiting trainers from entering the water with whales during shows.
According to a report by the Sun, witness Susanne De Wit vividly recounted the terror of that day, describing seeing Brancheau caught in the orca’s jaws as it approached the viewing window.
De Wit informed the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, stating, “They told us he was playing with the trainer. Suddenly I saw Shamu grabbing the trainer by the shoulder and pulling her down in the water near the window.”
“It did not look normal. It was scary. He was very wild with the trainer still in the whale’s mouth. The whale’s tail was very wild in the water. The tour guide pulled us out, and there was a full alarm. We then saw them throw a net into the water.”
A report on the incident also cited De Wit’s testimony, highlighting her observation of Brancheau’s frantic movements as the whale shook violently.
Reflecting on the tragedy, Brancheau’s sister Debbie Frogameni shared her ongoing struggle to comprehend the events, expressing to the Sun: “Some days, I think we are still processing her loss.”
“Dawn held a special place in the hearts of many, and the loss of someone like her is profoundly difficult to overcome. While it brings solace to acknowledge her remarkable achievements and rich experiences within her brief 40 years, the void left in our family and the world remains palpable.”
In response to inquiries, SeaWorld issued a statement acknowledging the incident and providing assurance that rigorous safety protocols have been implemented since then.
SeaWorld has stopped breeding orcas. Credit: Gerardo Mora/Getty
“The tragic incident occurred over 12 years ago. Trainers have not been engaged in water training with killer whales for several years now. We have implemented comprehensive protocols and training to safeguard the safety of both our trainers and animals,” the park stated.
SeaWorld faced intense scrutiny following the release of “Blackfish” on Netflix, a documentary that delved into the treatment of orcas within the park.
While SeaWorld still houses killer whales, they have ceased their breeding program, signifying that the current generation will be the last at the park.
