A Spanish tourist was tragically killed by a herd of elephants in South Africa’s Pilanesberg National Park after leaving his vehicle to take close-up photos. Local police have confirmed the incident, which took place in the game reserve located in South Africa’s North West Province.
Incident Details
The tourist, identified as 43-year-old Carlos Luna from Zaragoza, Spain, was visiting the park with his fiancée and two other women on Sunday. Provincial police spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone stated that Luna and his companions were touring the park in a private vehicle when they encountered three elephants with calves.
Ignoring warnings from his fellow passengers and occupants of nearby vehicles, Luna exited his vehicle to get closer to the elephants for a photo. An adult elephant cow charged at him, and despite attempting to flee, Luna was caught and trampled to death by the herd.
Park and Tourist Board Reactions
The Pilanesberg Game Reserve, South Africa’s fourth-largest park, is a renowned tourist destination home to over 7,000 animals. The North West province’s tourism board expressed their sadness over the incident, emphasizing the importance of respecting the safe distance between vehicles and wildlife and advising tourists to only leave their vehicles in designated areas.
Witnesses at the scene suggested that the female elephant's charge was likely an act of protection for the herd and the young calves.
Previous Incidents and Safety Warnings
Elephant attacks, though tragic, are not uncommon in South Africa. In 2019, a suspected poacher was killed by an elephant and subsequently eaten by lions in Kruger National Park. That same year, a security guard was crushed to death by an elephant at a mine in Limpopo province. More recently, an elderly American woman was killed by an elephant in Zambia’s largest national park.
The tourism board’s statement reiterated the need for tourists to adhere strictly to safety guidelines to avoid such tragic incidents.
The death of Carlos Luna serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent dangers associated with wildlife photography and close encounters with animals in their natural habitat. Tourists are urged to follow safety protocols diligently to prevent further tragedies. Plans are being made to repatriate Luna's body to Spain.
For those visiting wildlife reserves, it is crucial to respect the boundaries and behaviors of animals, ensuring a safe and respectful coexistence.
Source: CNN
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