Zookeepers tranquilize suicidal man and save him from lions

A man, in an apparent suicide attempt, stripped naked, climbed into a lion enclosure and antagonized them into attacking him Saturday.

Zookeepers at Santiago's Metropolitan Zoo accidentally shot the man with a tranquilizer in an attempt to save him. They ultimately had to shoot and kill two lions in front of a massive holiday crowd, according to The Guardian.

>> Read more trending stories

"The alarms sounded and chemical control arrived [tranquilizer darts] and an independent shooter arrived," Alejandra Montalba, the zoo director, told The Guardian. "The shooter decided to save the life of the person and unfortunately we had to sacrifice two members of our family."

Franco Luis Ferrada, 20, was carrying what appeared to be a suicide note, according to the Guardian. Police confirmed they found the note and are investigating its authenticity.

Ferrada was taken to a hospital with injuries to his pelvis and head, according to The Guardian.

A group of people showed up at the zoo Saturday night to hold a candlelight vigil for the lions, according to The Guardian.