Horror as popular six-year-old giraffe Parker dies after breaking his own neck in enclosure gate at Seneca Park Zoo

A POPULAR giraffe has tragically died after breaking his own neck in an enclosure gate at a zoo in New York. Six-year-old Parker – described as “a joy” to visitors – was found dead at Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester. FacebookParker died after getting his neck stuck in a gate[/caption] FacebookParker was described as ‘a joy’ to visitors and staff[/caption] Vets were immediately scrambled after zoo staff found Parker stuck in the Animals of the Savanna Building. Medics desperately tried to save the young giraffe’s life, but he sadly died. Superintendent Steve Lacy said the gate had been installed in 2018 and it was a “standard giraffe enclosure feature” used in zoos across the country. He added: “The possibility of this kind of event happening was unforeseen and unprecedented.” Officials said Parker, who arrived at the zoo in 2018, was “in excellent health”. He was the father of Olmsted, the baby giraffe born last April. Seneca Park Zoo Veterinarian Chris McKinney said: “Parker will be sorely missed by all. “He had been in excellent health prior to this and was a joy to both staff and visitors. “Our priority is the health and well-being of our animals and any major event can certainly affect them. “So far, all three giraffes, Iggy, Kipenzie, and Olmsted, are doing well. We will continue to monitor them closely in the coming days.” Zoo officials said they have notified the gate manufacturer about the incident. They said the structure is now being modified to ensure the wellness of three other giraffes. Dan Ashe, president and CEO of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, said: “Our hearts go out to the Seneca Park community and all the dedicated professionals at Seneca Park Zoo with the news of the death of their giraffe Parker.” Monroe County Executive Adam Bello said: “This is a tragedy for the Seneca Park Zoo community. “From the staff who cared for and loved Parker, to the zoo guests and members who had their visits brightened by Parker’s presence, we are all grieving this tremendous loss.” THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY… The Sun is your go to destination for the best celebrity news, football news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Download our fantastic, new and improved free App for the best ever Sun Online experience. For iPhone click here, for Android click here.  Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheSun and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun.