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A trainer at Loro Parque in the Canary Islands was killed during a training session with killer whales

TENERIFE, Spain -- A trainer at Loro Parque, a zoo in the Canary Islans, was accidentally killed by an orca during a training session for a Christmas spectacular planned to open at the beginning of January. The trainer was identified as 29-year-old Alexis Martínez from Puerto de la Cruz.

Seven other trainers were also present during the training session when Alexis drowned. As far as can be determined, Alexis was hit by the whale and drowned after being underwater for several minutes before he could be rescued.

Alexis was immediately assisted by Loro Parque emergency services. Amidst resuscitation attempts, he was transferred to the Bell Vue Clinic by ambulance, where he was admitted with cardiac arrest. An autopsy will be needed before the precise cause of death can be confirmed.

The news has distressed Loro Parque staff immensely, and the planned Orca show has been suspended for the moment. Alexis had worked at the Parque since 2004, where he was well regarded by his colleagues.

Reader Comments

5 people have commented so far. add your comment

The Orca should be returned to his home. We have no business taking these beautiful creatures away from their habitats. Putting them into "cages" is criminal. They should be free. J. Alderete
     - joycealderete · sacramento, california · Feb 26, 2010 @ 11:58am

is it rity to keep dolphins and whales cafth
     - corey.sullivan · uk whales · Feb 27, 2010 @ 7:58am

I hate the way they capture orcas and train them in aquariums. It so cruel.
     - Redicle · washington, USA · Mar 3, 2010 @ 4:53pm

Les agradesco sus envios,y aùn me interesan los motivos ecologicos de zonas vecinas.
     - Ricardo · Barranquilla,Colombia Sur Amèrica · Mar 5, 2010 @ 4:48pm

for one, which less than intelligent person gets in a tank with a 12 tonne whale, another thing, why dont we shove tham trainers in a bowl no bigger than there front room and train them, its simple.
     - eden. · england · Mar 15, 2010 @ 6:42am