Belonged to Joe Exotic

It was also confirmed that some of the tigers in Easley’s care had once belonged to Joseph Maldonado, better known as “Joe Exotic,” the former Oklahoma zoo operator and star of Netflix’s Tiger King. Exotic, now serving a 21-year prison sentence, posted condolences on X, mourning Easley’s death.

However, not everyone expressed sympathy.

PETA criticized Easley’s work, stating he “hauled [tigers] around the country, forced them to perform in cruel circuses, and kept them trapped in cages for hours when they weren’t performing” over the years, highlighting the controversial nature of big cat performances.

The sudden and brutal attack has left the community, fans, and Easley’s family in shock — a grim reminder of the dangers of close contact with apex predators.