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Dawn Brancheau, a committed trainer at the park, died in March 2010 after a disastrous encounter with Tilikum, a 12,000-pound killer whale called “Tilly” and also known by the stage name “Shamu.”
This terrible occurrence triggered a lengthy inquiry.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) conducted investigations, which resulted in substantial policy changes. One of the most prominent measures was a restriction on trainers entering the water with whales during shows, as a safeguard to avoid similar catastrophes.
Eyewitness Susanne De Wit gave a disturbing description of what happened that day. In her testimony to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, she explained how Tilikum took Brancheau and dragged her underwater in a frightening and unusual way.
“They told us the whale was playing with the trainer,” De Wit said. “Suddenly, I saw Shamu grasp the trainer’s shoulder and drag her down to the viewing glass. It did not seem normal—it was horrifying. He was writhing violently, with the trainer still in his mouth. “The whale’s tail was wildly splashing in the water.”
De Wit, a Dutch tourist, subsequently provided more information, describing how Brancheau’s legs twitched wildly as the whale shook her—a spectacle that severely distressed her and others.
Debbie Frogameni, Brancheau’s sister, spoke with The Sun in 2021 about the family’s long-standing anguish. “Some days, it feels like we’re still processing her loss,” Frogameni said, underscoring Dawn’s deep effect on those who knew her.
“Dawn meant so much to so many people, and I don’t believe you ever completely get over losing someone like her. We take solace in knowing that in 40 years, she accomplished and experienced more than many people do in a lifetime. But it does not compensate for what our family and the world lost that day.”
SeaWorld responded to the incident with a statement acknowledging the passage of time and current safety procedures.
“That awful scenario happened almost 12 years ago. Trainers have not been in the water with killer whales in many years. We have established comprehensive procedures and training to safeguard the safety of both our trainers and the animals.”
Organizations such as Cruse Bereavement Care give discreet assistance to individuals living with loss via their nationwide hotline, providing comfort and understanding during tough times.
