Senior elephant carer fatally attacked by elephant at Hoedspruit Sanctuary
A senior elephant carer at the Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development (Herd) sanctuary was fatally attacked by an elephant over the weekend.
In a statement, the sanctuary said the tragic incident took place on Saturday, September 13, while the elephants were out in the bush on the reserve.
It read that an elephant named Limpopo pushed down a tree shortly after 3 pm.
“The carers, Stavros, Godknows, and Joshua, went to fetch additional staff to help clear the road.
“Israel, one of our senior carers, was seated nearby under a tree. Moments later, Limpopo unexpectedly turned her attention towards Israel and fatally gored him,” the sanctuary said.
“Despite immediate efforts from his colleagues, nothing could be done. We are deeply shocked by this incident. Limpopo’s behaviour was entirely unexpected and unprovoked.”
Israel Shambira, who was among the original carers to arrive with the elephants from Zimbabwe in 2002, had worked at Herd for more than two decades. Known for his faith and daily prayers in the vegetable garden, he was described as “trusted, dependable, and deeply respected.”
“He often walked with Sebakwe, another elder of the herd, in quiet companionship at the close of each day, symbolic of the wisdom and calm he brought to our community,” Herd said.
Herd’s Elephant Manager, Tigere Matipedza, said the team was still struggling to comprehend the tragedy.
“We don’t know what went through Limpopo’s mind and why she did it. Just this morning, everything in the bush was calm, with no signs of agitation among the elephants.”
Herd has called in Brett Mitchell of the Elephant Reintegration Trust to provide guidance as the sanctuary assesses the way forward.
“No decisions will be taken hastily, as the implications of this event affect both carers and elephants profoundly.”
The sanctuary expressed its condolences to Shambira’s family, including his wife and eight children.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Israel’s family, during this devastating time. Israel was cherished by us all at HERD, and his absence will be deeply felt,” the organisation said.
HERD has asked for privacy for staff and Shambira’s family as they mourn his loss.
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