American Hunter Killed by Charging Buffalo During Safari in South Africa’s Limpopo Province

An American hunter from Texas, Asher Watkins, was killed on Sunday after being attacked by a buffalo while on a hunting safari in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, according to Coenraad Vermaak Safaris (CVS), the company that organized the expedition. CVS, which describes itself as the country’s longest-running hunting safari company, said Watkins was tracking the animal with a professional hunter and a tracker when the unwounded buffalo suddenly charged, fatally injuring him. The company did not confirm whether the buffalo was later killed.

The incident occurred during a traditional safari-style hunt, where participants drive through hunting areas in open-top vehicles before trailing game on foot. Buffaloes, which can weigh up to 2,000 pounds, are considered among Africa’s most dangerous animals to pursue. Similar fatal encounters have been reported in Limpopo, including the death of another big game hunter in 2018.

While the Custodians of Professional Hunting and Conservation (CPHC) said the circumstances of the incident are under review, animal rights groups have condemned trophy hunting following Watkins’ death. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) described the practice as a “cruel pastime” that needlessly costs both human and animal lives, while the group We Will Not Be Silenced about Hunters stated that the tragedy could have been avoided had Watkins not participated in killing South African wildlife.