Hydraulic Door That Killed Young Gorilla At San Francisco Zoo Working Properly
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) — Officials at the San Francisco Zoo said they retested the hydraulic door that crushed a young gorilla to death on Friday and found that its manual instant-stop switch was functioning properly.
It apparently wasn't pressed in time to save the gorilla when she moved quickly back toward the door.
MORE: Young Ape's Tragic Death
What's not clear, according to a report in the San Francisco Chronicle, is whether this particular door has automatic pressure stops or an electronic sensor similar to those used to stop automatic garage doors from coming down when there is an obstruction.
The 16-month-old gorilla, named Kabibe (was being ushered into her night-time quarters by zoo staff when she was killed.
Zoo spokeswoman Abigail Tuller said this type of accident is rare and that animal safety is their top priority.
Kabibe, whose name means "little lady" in Swahili, was born on July 17, 2013 to parents Nneka, 16, and Oscar Jonesy, 33, according to zoo officials. When she was 6 months old, zoo staff gradually introduced her to the gorilla troop, beginning with the family matriarch, Kabibe's grandmother, Bawang, 34.
"Some animal deaths are more difficult to process than others, and this tragedy has struck us all in the deepest way imaginable," San Francisco Zoo executive director Tanya Peterson said in a statement.
Peterson urged the public to be patient as the gorilla family and zoo staff mourn the loss of the gorilla.
The Jones Family Gorilla Preserve will remain open to the public, but officials said it may be closed periodically in the days ahead as the need arises.
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