A peaceful walking safari turned tragic after a protective elephant fatally charged two international tourists at South Luangwa National Park in Zambia.
Authorities confirmed that 68-year-old Janet Taylor from the United Kingdom and 67-year-old Alison Taylor from New Zealand were killed on Thursday after an unexpected encounter with a female elephant accompanied by her calf. The incident occurred approximately 370 miles from the Zambian capital, Lusaka.
According to Eastern Province Police Commissioner Robertson Mweemba, safari guides attempted to intervene by firing shots in an effort to deter the elephant. Despite injuring the animal, they were unable to stop the fatal charge. Both women died instantly at the scene.
Wildlife experts note that female elephants with calves can be extremely defensive, often reacting with force to perceived danger… even if unintentional.
This marks another tragic reminder of the risks involved in wildlife tourism, following a string of similar incidents involving American tourists in recent years.
