An infamous whale held captive at SeaWorld is said to have fed on a tank intruder’s penis before drowning it — and it wasn’t its only victim.
Tilikum, who died in 2017, was responsible for at least three human deaths during his lifetime, including Daniel P. Dukes, 27.
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Dukes reportedly waited at the Florida SeaWorld park until after its closure in July 1999, after which he stripped off to reveal swimming trunks and climbed into the 11,000-pound whale tank.
Sea World staff and trainers found the mauled man the next morning.
A wrongful death lawsuit was filed by Dukes’ parents, Michael and Patricia Dukes, who alleged that Tilikum had used his teeth to tear off Dukes’ penis.
Dukes’ death was the second involving Tilikum.
In 1991, Tilikum was involved in another drowning death of a trainer in a park in Canada.
Shortly after, the whale was sold to SeaWorld.
In 2010, Dawn Brancheau was dragged into the water by the killer whale during a post-show routine.
The woman was leaning over the edge of the tank to rub Tilikum when his behavior suddenly changed and he pulled her into the water by her ponytail.
In harrowing scenes, Dawn was shaken and tossed about as terrified guests were frantically led outside by the staff.
According to reports, the 40-year-old was scalped and her arm was bitten off during the attack.
Dawn’s shocking death made headlines around the world, raising the question of how ethical it is to keep whales in captivity – with much speculation centering on Tilikum’s treatment and life.
Many pundits and former trainers believe Tilikum has become a serial killer purely as a result of his traumatic time in captivity — with the landmark 2013 documentary Blackfish shedding light on long-term concerns.
Tilikum died in 2017 after serious health problems, including a persistent and complicated bacterial lung infection.
His death came just a year after SeaWorld announced they were shutting down their breeding program after years of campaigners railing against them.
A SeaWorld spokesperson previously said: “Since 2010, no trainers have been in the water to train or perform with orcas at SeaWorld.
“There have been no incidents as described in this article since these changes were made more than a decade ago.
“Our hundreds of veterinarians and healthcare professionals provide world-class medical care.
“None of the orcas in our care live a solitary life and they participate in positive reinforcement sessions on a daily basis, engaging in a range of different activities to ensure they receive adequate physical and mental exercise.
“In addition, the study of killer whales entrusted to our care by our scientists and outside organizations has directly informed the world’s knowledge and ability to protect whales in the wild.”
The Sun has contacted SeaWorld for further comment.