What was supposed to be a fun family day at the Pittsburgh zoo turned unbelievably tragic earlier this week when a young boy died after falling into an animal pen. Reports indicate that the accident, which took place at the Highland Park zoo complex, occurred shortly before noon when the child fell not only over a railing, but also off of a barrier made of mesh which helped to separate the animals on exhibit from zoo visitors.

The 3-year-old fell around 14 feet into the enclosure which housed 11 endangered African painted dogs. Despite efforts on the part of zookeepers to keep the animals away from the boy, they nonetheless attacked him. By the time rescuers got to him, he had sadly already died.

Prior to the accident the zoo had recently been re-accredited by the "Association of Zoos & Aquariums." The accreditation took into a variety of things including not only the treatment of the animals, but safety and education as well.

Perhaps not surprisingly, investigations into the incident have been launched by both the zoo as well as the police. The findings of those investigations will serve many purposes including determining whether new safety procedures should be put into place and whether there is any criminal negligence involved in the fatal accident.

Even if criminal negligence is not found, it is possible that the family of the child will file a civil wrongful death lawsuit. A successful lawsuit would provide financial damages to the boy's family. Though clearly a poor substitute for the joy of a living child, it may provide some closure and make it easier to move forward.

Source: examiner.com, "Child mauled to death by African painted dogs during visit to Pittsburgh zoo," Bryan Bard, Nov. 4, 2012

• Fatal accidents are difficult to deal with. Our firm provides counsel in personal injury matters including these. If you would like to learn more about our practice, please visit our Pittsburgh wrongful death page.