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Tragic Elephant Attack Claims Life of 59-Year-Old Man at Kruger National Park

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A 59-year-old man from Piet Retief tragically lost his life after being trampled by an elephant at the renowned Kruger National Park. The incident occurred while the man, identified as Shaik Adam Shabir Ammed, was visiting the park with his grandchildren on January 23, 2025.

According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, the children were taking photographs and videos of the elephant near the Malelane Gate when the situation took a tragic turn. The eldest child managed to grab the youngest one and both ran toward their grandfather as the elephant suddenly charged towards them.

“The elephant came towards him and attacked him with its trunk. At this point, their grandfather rushed to the children’s aid when the elephant turned and trampled him,” Ndubane explained. Despite the family’s best efforts to escape, Ammed was unable to avoid the attack, which led to his death from the injuries sustained.

As the emergency response teams arrived at the scene, it was confirmed that Ammed had already succumbed to his injuries. The young boy, who had tried to protect his sister, sustained injuries to his legs, while the five-year-old girl was unharmed.

In response to the devastating event, an inquest has been opened, and investigations are underway to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack. Authorities have urged visitors to nature reserves, including Kruger National Park, to exercise extreme caution when encountering wildlife.

While such incidents are rare, the tragic death of Ammed serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters, even in protected environments. The incident highlights the importance of adhering to safety guidelines while exploring the park’s vast and often untamed landscapes.

The Kruger National Park is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations, known for its rich biodiversity, including elephants, lions, and rhinos. However, as with all wildlife interactions, the safety of visitors should always remain a priority.

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