An African safari turned tragic when a massive elephant charged at a tour vehicle, causing a fatal incident that claimed the life of an American tourist.
A group of tourists embarked on an exciting safari in Zambia’s wilderness with the reputable Wilderness Zambia. However, their thrilling adventure took a tragic turn when a mammoth bull elephant charged at their vehicle, causing it to overturn multiple times. An 80-year-old American tourist lost her life in the incident.
According to a statement by Keith Vincent, the CEO of Wilderness Zambia, the group was out on a photography tour when the unexpected attack occurred.
“At around 9:30 a.m. on Saturday morning the six guests were on the game drive when the vehicle was unexpectedly charged by the bull elephant,” Vincent said.
A passenger in the vehicle managed to capture the harrowing incident on video.
The video shows the elephant rapidly advancing towards the safari vehicle. The vehicle had come to a halt as its path was obstructed. As the passenger continued to film, the elephant lunged at the vehicle, causing it to flip over.
Sadly, the elderly American woman succumbed to her injuries from the incident. Another woman was hospitalized, while the remaining four tourists sustained minor injuries.
“Our guides are all extremely well-trained and experienced, but sadly in this instance the terrain and vegetation was such that the guide’s route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm’s way quickly enough,” Vincent said.
In response to the tragic incident, Kafue National Park’s management promptly dispatched a helicopter to the scene to evacuate the victims.
Note: Kafue National Park is Africa’s largest game reserve.
Vincent offered his condolences to the family of the deceased and assured that they were extending support to the rest of the guests and the guide involved.
The group was reportedly staying at the luxurious Lufupa Camp within the park, which is managed by African Parks. This organization also oversees 22 other wildlife sanctuaries in Africa.
