Category - Travel
Elephant Tramples Grandfather to Death at Iconic National Park
A courageous grandfather was killed while trying to protect his grandchildren from a wild animal attack, South African National Parks agency SAN Parks announced in a press release.
On Jan. 25, 59-year-old Shaik Adam Shabir Ammed, of South Africa, was exploring near Malelane Gate in Kruger National Park when he was attacked by an elephant. “
Today a tragic accident occurred when a tourist was charged and trampled by an elephant near Crocodile River at Malelane Gate. This, regrettably, resulted in loss of life,” the statement read. “SAN Parks officials are at the scene to attend to the matter and support the family. Events leading up to the incident are currently under investigation.”
According to local outlets, Ammed tried to shield his two grandchildren, ages 11 and five, when the animal “suddenly came charging towards them” while they were taking photos and videos of it.
“The eldest child is said to have managed to grab the youngest one, and both ran towards their grandfather, who also took off as he realized that the elephant was charging,” Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane said in a separate statement (via EWN.) "The elephant came towards him and attacked him with its trunk. At this point, their grandfather rushed to the children's aid when the elephant turned and trampled him," he explained of the tragic incident.
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Ammed died at the scene, while the 11-year-old “sustained injuries to his legs.” The five-year-old was uninjured. An investigation is currently being conducted to determine the exact cause of the attack. SAN Parks expressed their condolences to all affected by the incident, and reminded guests of the importance of adhering to proper safety protocols in wildlife areas.
