Orca Trainer Alexis Martinez Killed in Tragic Attack by Captive Whale
On December 24, 2009, 28-year-old orca trainer Alexis Martinez was killed during a rehearsal at Loro Parque in the Canary Islands when Keto, a captive orca on loan from SeaWorld, fatally attacked him. Martinez, who had expressed concerns about the orcas’ behavior, suffered severe internal injuries and bite marks. The incident, occurring just months before another fatal orca attack at SeaWorld, led to temporary safety changes and intensified public debate over orca captivity. Martinez’s death remains a powerful reminder of the risks and ethical concerns tied to keeping large marine animals in captivity.
