Chilling Last Words of Trainer Torn Apart by ‘Psychotic’ Killer Whales
Nature can be terrifying, reminding us that without technology, humans are vulnerable compared to wild animals. This truth hit hard in 1991 when young trainer Keltie Byrne was tragically torn apart by three orcas at Sealand of the Pacific in Canada.
Keltie, a 20-year-old marine biology student, was working part-time with sea animals, including the orcas Tilikum, Haida II, and Nootka IV. On February 20, 1991, she slipped into the orca tank and was dragged underwater for 15 minutes by the whales. Tilikum, captured at two years old and later infamous for multiple human deaths, was the first to grab her, while the female orcas blocked help.
Eyewitnesses recalled Keltie’s desperate screams and her struggle to grab a life buoy, but the orca did not release her. This horrific event led to the permanent closure of Sealand. The orcas were sold to SeaWorld, where Tilikum caused further tragedies, including the deaths of Daniel Dukes in 1999 and trainer Dawn Brancheau in 2010, ultimately leading to SeaWorld ending its orca shows and breeding.
This haunting story underscores the immense power of orcas and the grave risks of captivity. It reminds us to respect and carefully consider the wild nature of these magnificent creatures.
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Source: nl.newsner.com