Elephant. Picture: Pexels
A tragic event occurred at Kruger National Park as a tourist was fatally trampled by an elephant near the Crocodile River at Malelane Gate.
The elephant charged the visitor before causing the devastating injuries, confirmed South African National Parks (SANParks) spokesperson JP Louw.
SANParks officials quickly responded to the scene, providing support to the grieving family while investigators began to determine the circumstances leading up to the attack. “We are still looking into the details of what happened,” JP said.
Meanwhile, a witness told the news publication, TimesLive, that the man died while attempting to protect his grandchildren from the incident.
“The children were next to the bridge when Ammed saw the elephant close to them. He rushed over to save them, and it attacked him,” said the witness.
According to the above-mentioned publication, this statement was later confirmed by Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brig Donald Mdlhuli.
“Preliminary investigations suggest the children were taking pictures next to the bridge. The victim saw an elephant behind the trees and rushed over to save the two kids. That is when it attacked and killed him.”
In a bid to protect the family’s privacy, SANParks has asked the public to refrain from sharing photos or videos of the incident.
The organisation’s Board and Management extended their heartfelt condolences to the victim’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
Written by Aiden Daries
First published by Cape Town etc
Also see: One fatality, two wounded after encounter with Zambian Elephant
