SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) — Authorities at a Chilean zoo say two lions were killed after they severely mauled a man who stripped naked and entered their enclosure in an apparent attempt at suicide.

The man was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment and was said to be in grave condition.

Director Alejandra Montalba of Santiago's Metropolitan Zoo told local media the park was crowded with visitors at the time of the incident Saturday morning.

The 20-year-old man broke into the enclosure, took off his clothes and jumped into the middle, horrifying other visitors who witnessed the attack. Zookeepers killed the two lions in order to save his life.

An apparent suicide note was found in his clothing, and Metropolitan Park director Mauricio Fabry said witnesses reported he also made religious proclamations.