US Tourist Dies in Zambian Elephant Encounter
During a safari tour in Kafue National Park, Zambia, an 80-year-old American tourist was killed when a male elephant charged and attacked the vehicle she was in. The incident left another female guest seriously injured, requiring her to be airlifted to a private medical facility in South Africa. Four other guests sustained minor injuries and received on-site treatment and trauma counseling.
The attack happened during a game drive from Lufupa Camp, a popular tourist destination within the park. The guide, who was experienced and trained, was unable to move the vehicle out of harm's way in time due to the terrain and dense vegetation, which blocked the route. A video of the elephant charging the vehicle circulated on social media, illustrating the suddenness and ferocity of the attack.
Wilderness Safaris, the company operating the tour, is coordinating with local Zambian authorities and the U.S. Embassy in Lusaka to repatriate the deceased tourist's remains. CEO Keith Vincent expressed condolences and called the incident "extremely tragic." Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack, and safety protocols for safari tours are expected to be reviewed in the wake of this and previous incidents involving wildlife.
