At an interactive exhibit where they were encouraged to touch the octopus, it wrapped its tentacles around Leo’s arm and wouldn’t let go, prompting Taryn to call for help. Employees eventually used ice packs to distract the octopus and free Leo after about five minutes.

A six-year-old boy is covered in bruises after an octopus grabbed his arm and wouldn't let go during a visit to the San Antonio Aquarium on July 14. The child's mother has since spoken out about the situation on TikTok.