Lion attacks and kills handler in front of audience

A tragic incident took place at a circus in Egypt where a lion attacked his handler, Islam Shaheen, who was trying to get one of the lions to perform for a crowd of 200 people.

The horrific accident was caught on camera by a shaken on-looker, as they watched the lion brutally attack the handler.

Shaheen died two days after the attack, as a result of the injuries sustained.

Warning: Content contains graphic footage!

The lion was a 200kg South African lion, who was apparently, a new addition to the show. Islam had been working for the circus for 20 years.