Deadly Encounter Captured on Video
An elephant attack in Zambia’s Kafue National Park took a tragic turn over the weekend, resulting in the death of 79-year-old Gail Mattson, a retired Minnesotan. The harrowing incident was captured on cellphone video by fellow tourists, showing the large bull elephant approaching their safari vehicle, ultimately rolling it several times.
Family Mourns Loss of Adventurous Traveler
Mattson, described as “adventurous” and “loved by everybody,” was on a month-long vacation overseas when the fatal attack occurred. Her daughter confirmed the heartbreaking news on Facebook, sharing that her mother had passed away in “a tragic accident while on her dream adventure.”
Investigations Underway
Wilderness Safaris, the tour operator in the park, expressed condolences to Mattson’s family and stated they are collaborating with national authorities to investigate the incident. The company mentioned that the other tourists in the group, all Americans, sustained minor injuries during the attack, emphasizing the challenging terrain that hindered the ranger’s ability to swiftly move the vehicle to safety.
Popular Tourist Destination
Kafue National Park, spanning 8,650 square miles, is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, leopards, rhinoceros, and buffalo. Despite the tragic event, the park remains a popular destination for tourists seeking encounters with Africa’s iconic big animal species.