British Woman Killed by Charging Elephant on Safari in Zambia

• A British woman and a New Zealand national were killed by an elephant in Zambia.
• Incident took place during a walking safari in South Luangwa National Park.
• The elephant was with a calf and perceived the women as a threat.
• Guides attempted to stop the elephant by firing shots, but to no avail.
• This incident joins a history of similar deadly encounters in Zambia’s parks.

Two women fatally attacked by elephant in Zambia

A tragic incident during a walking safari in Zambia has resulted in the deaths of two women, including a British tourist. Reports indicate that the two victims were fatally attacked by a female elephant identified as protective of her calf at the South Luangwa National Park, a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The incident occurred on Thursday, and local authorities are initiating an investigation to determine the specifics of this unfortunate event.

Safari guides attempted to deter the charging elephant

According to Eastern Province Police Commissioner Robertson Mweemba, safari guides reacting to the charging elephant reportedly fired warning shots to distract the animal. However, despite their efforts, they were unable to stop the elephant from reaching the two women. The elderly British woman, alongside her New Zealand friend, unfortunately, died at the scene, which has shocked both the tour community and their families back home.

Past incidents raise concern over safari safety

This chilling event is reminiscent of previous safari tragedies in Zambia, where two elderly American women were killed by elephants in separate incidents last year. One woman, Juliana Gle Tourneau from New Mexico, died when she exited her safari vehicle, defying park rules, while another, Gail Mattson from Minnesota, was also caught off-guard during a game drive. Sadly, such occurrences highlight the dangers that wildlife encounters can present, especially in the context of exciting safari experiences.

The shocking deaths of two women during a safari in Zambia underscore the potential dangers associated with wildlife tourism. With a history of previous fatal encounters in the region, authorities are likely to increase awareness efforts about safety protocols. The tragic loss serves as a harsh reminder of nature’s unpredictability, particularly when human beings interact with wild animals in their natural habitats.