Kruger Park Elephant Kills Tourist Protecting Children

A 59-year-old South African man, Shaik Adam Shabir Ammed, died in Kruger National Park after being trampled by an elephant while attempting to protect children, according to park officials.

The incident, which occurred near the Malelane reception area on Sunday, is under investigation by South African National Parks (SANParks) and law enforcement.

Witnesses reported that children ran from a family’s parked car into the bush, prompting a nearby elephant herd to charge. Mr. Ammed intervened to help the children and was subsequently chased and fatally injured by an elephant.

SANParks stated that the specific elephant responsible could not be identified due to the presence of multiple elephants in the area and their immediate departure following the incident.

 

SANParks extended its condolences to the Ammed family.

The agency’s website emphasizes the potential dangers posed by wildlife in national parks, advising visitors to remain in designated areas, keep vehicle doors closed, and avoid any body parts extending from windows or sunroofs.

 

While typically peaceful, elephants can exhibit aggression when provoked, injured, or ill. SANParks explained that elephants may charge, sometimes as a bluff, but that a serious attack can result in fatalities for other animals, including humans, and significant property damage.