Video shows Dawn Brancheau with Tilikum the Killer Whale (photos, videos)

Video shows Dawn Brancheau with Tilikum the Killer Whale (photos, videos)

Recently obtained videos show Dawn Brancheau with Tilikum, the killer whale that fatally attacked her and submerged her in his tank, resulting in her drowning death. In the video you can see Dawn as she repeatedly throws water and tosses fish to the killer whale, Tilikum. Her family has stated that since Dawn was 9 years old, it had been her lifelong mission to work with killer whales. That dream came to a tragic end when the killer whale put a quick and brutal end to her life.

Sea World trainer killed, park confirms killer whale Tilikum dragged Dawn Brancheau into water

An investigation into the death is being conducted by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. During a press conference yesterday, it was announced that Dawn Brancheau had slipped and fell into the tank. Later, it was announced that Tilikum grabbed Dawn Brancheau, knocked her shoe off, and pulled her into the tank.

Slideshow: Sea World killer whale trainer killed at Shamu Stadium (video, photos)

According to the Orlando Sentinel, Dawn Brancheau fell in love with the animals and wanted to work with the giant creatures since a trip to Sea World when she was 9-years-old.

Dawn Brancheau had worked at Sea World for 17 years and began her career at the Sea Lion and Otter Stadium before her promotion to the Shamu Stadium.  She was considered an expert in her field and the most experienced killer whale trainer at Sea World Orlando.