A tragic incident unfolded at Kruger National Park in South Africa last weekend when a 59-year-old tourist was trampled to death by an elephant. The victim, identified as Shaik Adam Shabir Ammed from eMkhondo, was reportedly attempting to save his grandchild when the fatal encounter occurred. The family was parked near the Malelane reception area close to Crocodile River when the children ventured past a bridge into the bush, provoking an elephant from a nearby herd to charge at them.
Eyewitnesses reported that Ammed heroically rushed to assist the children. In his attempt to protect them, he was chased and trampled by the elephant, succumbing to his injuries on the scene on January 25. The incident has prompted an investigation by the South African Police, with SANParks, the body responsible for managing the park, fully cooperating. However, SANParks stated they would not provide further updates until the police conclude their investigation.
"On the day of the incident, the animal responsible for the death could not be identified as there were several of them in the vicinity and they immediately moved away while people were trying to save the life of the deceased," stated SANParks.
The Ammed family was visiting Kruger National Park when the unfortunate event took place. The incident has highlighted the inherent dangers of wildlife encounters in national parks, even as visitors seek to enjoy nature's beauty. The bridge and bush area where the children ran is a known point of interest for visitors, yet it underscores the need for vigilance in such environments.
"He rushed to assist the children and that is when he was chased and trampled by one of the animals. He succumbed to his injuries on the scene," SANParks confirmed.
In light of this tragedy, SANParks has expressed their condolences and urged restraint from public speculation until official findings are released.
"SANParks would like to reiterate that the incident is regrettable and unfortunate, but calls on the public to refrain from speculating, until the police have finalised their report and to allow the family to mourn their loved one in dignity," SANParks advised.
"Management continues to offer heartfelt condolences to the Ammed family and wishes them strength in this difficult time," SANParks added.
