Roger Williams Park Zoo Zebra Dies During Thunderstorm

PROVIDENCE, RI — A beloved 24-year-old Roger Williams Park Zoo zebra died suddenly during Thursday's thunderstorm, according to a post on the zoo's Facebook page.

"According to zoo officials, Samantha fatally injured herself after colliding with a fence in her holding area," the post said. "A necropsy confirmed that the impact was fatal and that she died instantly. The zoo described the incident as a heartbreaking accident that left staff devastated."

Samantha, a plains zebra, had resided at the zoo since 2003 and was "known for her gentle and shy demeanor," the post said.

"She shared a strong bond with another zebra, Tundra, who along with Zipper, the zoo’s other zebra, is being closely monitored by the animal care and veterinary teams as they cope with the loss," the post said.

“Samantha was a cherished member of our zebra herd,” zoo representatives said in a statement. “Her sudden passing has left a void that will be deeply felt by our entire team.”