Going on safari in the savannah has got to be one of the most beautiful experiences ever. The sheer range of wildlife sounds absolutely amazing.
But they're also extremely dangerous. I don't know about you, but I think a gun would feel quite needed if I were heading into lion territory. But, as with all things, they have their downsides.
A 69-year-old Canadian tourist has died in South Africa while on safari due to a gun accidentally going off. According to the Daily Mail, the incident happened in Kruger National Park, which is located in South Africa.
The tour group had pulled over for a barbecue in the sunset when the shot was fired. It struck the 69-year-old straight in the chest. Whilst first aid was performed by a member of the troupe, he unfortunately died of his wounds at the scene.
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A Spokesperson Detailed the Tragic Safari Event
A spokesperson for the Kruger National Park, JP Louw, confirmed that the ranger was also a guide for the group. But he wasn't doing two jobs at once — it was a private side-gig.
He explained, "Our information so far is that a private guide attached to a concession operator allegedly accidentally discharged a firearm in the Kruger."
"It resulted in a fatal injury to a 69-year-old Canadian tourist in the national park. The guest was part of a group who booked outside the park and came in for a bush braii offered by a private concession with a valid permit to allow them into the park."
"This tragic matter is now in the hands of the South African Police," the statement finished.
The South African Police Also Issued a Statement
Colonel Mavela Masondo, a spokesperson for the South African Police, also released a statement. "It is alleged that the 69-year-old male tourist approached the concession operator, who was holding a rifle and asked if it was a real firearm."
He continued, "While the operator was demonstrating that it was a real rifle, that was the time when the firearm reportedly discharged, and it killed the tourist instantly."
This is a tragic situation. Our thoughts and prayers are with the man's family. May he rest in peace.
