21 Animals Die at John Ball Park Zoo

Zoo workers arrived at about 7:30 am on Friday morning to find 18 stingrays and 3 bamboo sharks dead in their exhibit.

The cause of death looks like an equipment malfunction due to the heavy rain on Thursday night. Two pumps for the stingray lagoon failed and a backup alarm system also did not work. With the pumps not working correctly, the oxygen in the water level fell. The low oxygen levels are believed to be the cause of death.

In a statement released to the press, John Ball Zoo CEO Peter D’Arienzo said, “It is with profound sadness we announce the loss of 18 stingrays and three sharks. This is a heart-wrenching incident, and we are mourning the loss of these special animals that brought so much joy and amazement to so many people.”

Because of the deaths, the stingray exhibit is permanently closed. However, zoo officials plan to re-open a stingray exhibit something in the future as part of the zoo’s master plan.

Posted on the zoo’s Facebook page on Friday: “The Zoo is currently discussing the best way to honor and memorialize these amazing special animals who brought so much joy and amazement to so many people. We appreciate the support of our members, donors and community as we work through this difficult situation”