Mossel Bay, Western Cape - A somber mood has descended upon the Gondwana Private Game Reserve following a tragic incident on Tuesday morning. A 39-year-old employee was fatally injured after being trampled by an elephant.
According to police spokesperson Sergeant Christopher Spies, the incident occurred around 8am. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but tragically, the man was pronounced dead at the scene due to multiple injuries.
"Kwanonqaba police opened an inquest docket following an incident which led to the death of a 39-year-old man at a game reserve at Mossel Bay on Tuesday morning. Police were summoned to the scene following the incident,” Spies stated.
Details surrounding the incident are still emerging, and police have opened an inquest docket to investigate the circumstances leading to the man's death. Spies confirmed that the elephant had already been moved away from the camp by the time authorities arrived.
The news has sent shockwaves through the local community and has raised questions about safety protocols within the game reserve. Cape {town} Etc has reached out to Gondwana Private Game Reserve for comment, but no statement has been issued as of yet.
This incident follows another recent tragedy where a man was killed by an elephant near Kruger National Park, highlighting the dangers faced by those working in close proximity to wildlife.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time.
Safety Concerns at Game Reserves
This incident underscores the inherent risks associated with working in close proximity to wild animals. It is crucial that game reserves have robust safety protocols in place to protect their employees. The investigation will likely focus on whether adequate measures were in place and if any negligence contributed to the tragic outcome.
Further Investigation Needed
- Review of existing safety protocols
- Witness statements from other employees
- Assessment of elephant behaviour and management