A tragic incident occurred on Saturday where a tourist died after he was charged and trampled by an elephant near Crocodile River at Malelane Gate. This, regrettably, resulted in loss of life.

BE SENSITIVE

South African National Parks (SANParks) spokesperson JP Louw said officials are at the scene to attend to the matter and support the family. 

"Events leading up to the incident are currently under investigation. Due to the sensitivity of this matter, we appeal to the public to refrain from posting any pictures or videos of the incident and victim," said Louw

Louw said the SANParks Board and Management extends their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased for the loss of their loved one.

SIMILAR INCIDENT

In July last year, a Spanish tourist (43) was trampled to death by three elephants after climbing out of his car to take photos of the herd at a game reserve in Pilanesburg National Park.

The deceased man was visiting Pilanesberg National Park with his fiancee and two other people when the attack happened, according to police.

"The group had been driving around in their own vehicle before spotting three elephants with three calves.Once the man got out of the car and walked towards the herd, the matriarch became agitated and charged at him," said Pieter Nel, a spokesman for the local tourism board.

He warned, "Tourists are constantly reminded about the importance of staying inside their vehicles when visiting the park, and to keep a good distance between animals and their vehicles and give animals a chance to move freely, and to only get out of vehicles in safely designated areas."