Ettore Weber, one of the most famous circus tamers, has been mauled to death by his tigers 30 minutes before a show in Italy started.

The 61-year-old was mauled to death at the Circo Orfei in the countryside near Bari. He was preparing for his act when one of the big cats attacked him and the other three also jumped on him.

The animals ‘played’ with his body for half an hour in front of shocked medics who couldn’t do anything to help, according to La Gazzetta del Mezzogiorno.

Weber’s colleagues tried to drive the tigers away but failed, Corriere reported.

Police were contacted and investigated to recreate the events that led to the attack. According to medics, Weber suffered numerous serious injuries, including severe trauma to the spine.

It is unclear what will happen to the animals now that their tamer is gone.

One internet user said: “They’re WILD ANIMALS and should NOT BE IN A CIRCUS. I thought the use if animals was banned!! Give them to a sanctuary so they can have a decent life not shur in a small cage and brought out to “entertain ” the masses..”

Another wrote: “And the tigers will be killed because they’re vicious normal tigers put in captivity.”

A third commented: “I will always be on the side of the captive animal.”

Someone else also shared her opinion: “Please tell me these tigers will not be euthanized, but instead sent to a wonderful tiger rescue where they will be able to enjoy the rest of their lives without having to perform useless tricks.”

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