Safari-park owner who said he'd rather be killed by an elephant than shoot one is fatally tramped ... by an elephant
Key Points:
- Gary Freeman, a 65-year-old safari-park owner and experienced tour guide, was fatally trampled by an elephant at Klaserie Private Nature Reserve in Limpopo, South Africa, on April 9.
- Freeman was leading a small group of tourists when the elephant charged; despite his attempt to break the charge, he was quickly overpowered and fatally injured.
- The four tourists helped get Freeman into a vehicle and sought medical aid, but he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
- Freeman was known for his deep respect and love for elephants, famously stating he would rather be killed by one than shoot one, reflecting a special bond with the animals.
- Authorities have launched an inquest and called experts to determine if the elephant poses a threat to others; while attacks are rare, elephants cause 300 to 600 human deaths annually worldwide.