By Deborah Nnamdi
A 59-year-old grandfather was tragically trampled to death by an elephant on Saturday while trying to save his grandchildren from the charging animal.
The incident, which happened at South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park, was reported on Sunday by Times Live.
The fatal encounter unfolded near the park’s Malelane Gate, a popular entry point, when the family was capturing photos and videos of the elephant.
According to a police statement, the animal suddenly charged, prompting the man’s two grandchildren, aged five and eleven, to flee.The children stumbled, and the elephant struck the older child with its trunk.
“It was during this time when the grandfather went to assist … when the elephant turned and trampled on him before it left them and returned to the Kruger National Park premises,” the statement read.
The man died from his injuries at the scene, while the 11-year-old boy sustained a leg injury and was transported to a hospital for treatment.
A spokesperson for South African National Parks (SANParks), JP Louw, confirmed the incident and appealed to witnesses to respect the family’s grief by refraining from sharing photos or videos of the tragedy.
“The sensitivity of the matter cannot be overstated.
“The SANParks board and management extend their deepest condolences to the friends and family of the deceased,” he said.
Louw also noted that investigations into the incident are ongoing and assured the public that more details would be released in due course.
