A circus show in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, descended into chaos when a tiger broke free from its enclosure after the safety net suddenly collapsed during the performance.
The incident took place at the Dovgaluk Circus, where three tigers were performing on benches inside the arena.
When the protective net fell to the ground, one of the tigers reacted quickly and jumped towards the spectator area, causing great panic.
🐅 A tiger jumped over a barrier straight into the audience at a circus in Rostov
- NEXTA (@nexta_tv) April 19, 2026
At the start of the performance, the barrier collapsed, the animals got scared — and one of the predators jumped into the crowd.
People rushed to leave their seats and run outside.
It seems that… pic.twitter.com/80USabjBJv
Families with children were seen screaming and running away, while others were advised to stay seated so as not to provoke the animal.
Circus staff later managed to lead the tiger back and secure it, and it was later found outside the tent, with no reports of injuries.
The event has reopened debates about the use of wild animals in circuses and the safety of such performances. /Telegraph
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