Limpopo, a 19-year-old female elephant, was euthanised after fatally goring senior carer Israel Shambira at the Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development Trust (HERD) on September 13.
Shambira, a long-serving and trusted member of staff, was among carers who arrived with the herd from Zimbabwe in 2002.

According to HERD, the incident occurred shortly after 15:00 when Limpopo pushed over a tree while out in the bush. While other carers went to fetch assistance to clear the road, Limpopo unexpectedly turned on Shambira, fatally goring him. Colleagues were unable to save him. HERD described the attack as “entirely unexpected and unprovoked”.

ALSO READ: Woman survives leopard attack in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve

In the days following the incident, carers reported heightened concern over Limpopo’s behaviour. HERD initially planned to relocate her, along with six companions, to a secure 35-hectare enclosure at the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre until a long-term rewilding site could be identified.

However, during the move on September 19, the elephants became agitated and Limpopo again displayed aggressive behaviour towards senior staff.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Ssspitting sssurprise in Kruger caught and released

HERD said this left her presence “unpredictable and unsafe” and forced the trust to make what it described as the “devastating but unavoidable decision” to euthanise her.

The decision came after extensive consultation with elephant behaviour expert Brett Mitchell to investigate Limpopo’s sudden change in temperament. The organisation said the decision to euthanise the elephant was made on ethical and humane grounds to ensure the safety of staff and the responsible management of the herd.
The remaining herd has reportedly shown no aggression and remains calm and settled.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Moment of disarray as leopard sprints through picnic spot in Kruger National Park

Shambira leaves behind his wife and eight children. The organisation has extended its condolences and said his family will join staff in Hoedspruit to honour his memory. The trust has set up a fundraising page on their website to support Shambira’s family through this difficult time.