A man’s death inside a private South Carolina kangaroo and wallaby enclosure has triggered a police investigation, raising chilling questions about human-animal interactions on exotic farms.
At a Glance
- Eric Slate, 52, was found dead inside a wallaby and kangaroo pen near Loris, S.C.
- Authorities are treating the case as an “apparent animal-related incident”
- An autopsy revealed Slate died of multiple blunt force injuries
- All animals at the scene are accounted for and pose no public danger
- The farm, 5 Star Farms, is asking for privacy as the investigation continues
The Enclosure Tragedy
On Friday evening, Eric Slate was found dead within an animal enclosure at a family-operated property along Highway 746 in Loris, South Carolina. The area housed non-domesticated marsupials including wallabies and kangaroos. Authorities from the Horry County Police Department have described the incident as an “apparent animal-related incident”, though details remain scarce.
According to NBC News, the animals involved—including a kangaroo known locally as “Mr. Jack”—were secured and not posing any danger to the public. But the mystery surrounding how a grown man died among typically non-aggressive marsupials has sparked intense scrutiny.
Watch a report: Man Found Dead in Kangaroo Pen – YouTube.
Ongoing Investigation
An autopsy determined that Slate died from “multiple blunt force injuries,” according to local CBS affiliate WBTW. While it’s not yet confirmed that the injuries were inflicted by animals, police have not ruled it out. Investigators are awaiting toxicology results and additional forensic evidence.
“There are a number of other animals at the incident location,” Horry County police said. “All animals are accounted for and contained, and there is no risk to the community.”
Police are urging patience as the investigation continues and emphasized that Slate’s death may involve more than what initially meets the eye.
Seeking Solace Amidst Tragedy
The death has cast a somber shadow over 5 Star Farms, a family-run facility known for interactive exotic animal experiences. The farm’s operators issued a statement requesting privacy: “At this time we do ask for respect and support for the family,” they said through NBC News.
Located about 30 miles north of Myrtle Beach, 5 Star Farms had built a reputation for its hands-on animal encounters. That reputation is now being reexamined amid concerns over safety protocols and animal handling practices.
This rare and tragic case underscores the potential risks associated with exotic animal ownership and public access. As authorities continue to investigate, the community awaits answers—and the family of Eric Slate seeks closure in the wake of an inexplicable loss.
