A 36-year-old guide at Gondwana Private Game Reserve was killed by an elephant at the reserve yesterday. The guide has been identified as David Kandela.

Gondwana Private Game Reserve is in the Herbertsdale area, inland from Mossel Bay, off the N2 in the direction of Cape Town.

According to a press release from Gondwana, the incident took place as one of the reserve’s elephant herds was peacefully passing through the Gondwana Tented Eco Camp.

“The herd, docile in nature, had nearly passed through the camp when David encountered the last elephant, just before the tragic event occurred.”

Kandela joined Gondwana’s team of field guides on December 8, 2023, seamlessly integrating into the community and demonstrating a deep passion for his work, Gondwana stated.

“There is an inherent risk in working closely with wild animals and the reality of such an incident, resulting in the loss of a colleague, is profoundly saddening.”

The statement added: “His untimely passing leaves a void within the Gondwana family, as David was not only a colleague but also a source of warmth and expertise among his peers. Our hearts and thoughts remain with David’s family and friends during this immensely difficult time. Gondwana pledges to support all those affected by this tragic incident.”