Charging Elephant Claims Life of US Tourist on Safari in Zambia

In a devastating incident, an elderly American woman lost her life during a safari in Zambia’s Kafue National Park when an elephant charged at the vehicle she was traveling in, operated by the conservation and hospitality company Wilderness.

The unfortunate incident occurred on Saturday, March 30, 2024, as the vehicle, carrying six guests and a guide, ventured into the park for a wildlife viewing excursion.

According to Wilderness Chief Executive Officer Keith Vincent, the group was unexpectedly charged by a bull elephant during what is typically a serene game drive.

Despite the experienced guide’s efforts, the vehicle was unable to maneuver swiftly enough to evade the charging elephant due to the challenging terrain and dense vegetation.

Tragically, an elderly American woman, later identified as 79-year-old Gail Mattson by her family, lost her life in the encounter.

“Our guides are all extremely well trained and experienced, but sadly in this instance, the terrain and vegetation were such that the guide’s route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm’s way quickly enough,” Vincent lamented.

Expressing condolences to the grieving family, Vincent described the incident as “a tragic event” and assured ongoing support for all individuals affected by the distressing ordeal.

Mattson’s family described her as a beloved grandmother and retired mortgage professional who embarked on the safari as a dream adventure. Her son, Blake Vetter, emphasized the unforeseeable nature of the incident, characterizing it as a “freak accident.”

Zambia’s Kafue National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and captivating landscapes, attracts safari enthusiasts from around the world. However, this incident serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks associated with wildlife encounters, despite stringent safety measures and expert guidance.