WASHINGTON, 31 DEC - A lion has escaped from the fence of a naturalistic center in Burlington (North Carolina) and killed a cleaner. The animal was shot down to allow the recovery of the seriously injured woman, who died shortly thereafter. This is announced by the Conservators Center. The victim was part of a specialized team and was cleaning the area when the lion came out of the space that was supposed to be closed. An investigation was opened on the matter. The facility was opened in 1999 and houses over 80 animals, including 14 between lions and tigers. Since 2007 organizes tours for visitors, which are over 16 thousand a year.