A man, who has since been identified as a 52-year-old millionaire from Texas, was killed by a Cape buffalo during a hunting safari in Limpopo on Sunday.

A statement by Hans Vermaak of Coenraad Vermaak Safaris (CVS) reads: “Asher Watkins was fatally injured in a sudden and unprovoked attack by an unwounded buffalo he was tracking together with one of our professional hunters and one of our trackers.”

Vermaak said their hearts go out to his loved ones in this difficult time, in what he called a ‘devastating incident’.

“This is a deeply traumatic incident for all involved. The family and our team members who were present at the time are understandably shaken. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, as well as our staff members involved, we will not be sharing further details. We kindly ask for privacy and compassion during this time while all those affected come to terms with this tragedy.

“Our deepest condolences go out to Asher’s family, especially his mother Gwen, his daughter Savannah, his brother Amon and stepfather, Tony, and to all his loved ones and friends. The family are long-standing friends and part of the CVS family. We hold them close in our thoughts and prayers.”

The statement said CVS is co-operating with ‘relevant authorities to ensure all procedures are followed’.

“CVS will continue to support the family in the days and weeks ahead, and we are co-operating fully with all the relevant authorities to ensure all procedures are followed.”

Cape buffalo

CVS’ website states that Cape buffalo are ‘responsible for several deaths and many injuries to hunters each year’. “The buffalo is regarded as the most dangerous animal to pursue in Africa, let alone the world,” it states.

Information on the website says these buffalo are known to charge unprovoked. “When they are wounded, it is advisable to be prepared for the worst. The old saying, ‘walk slowly and carry a big stick’ could not ring truer when describing a follow-up on a buffalo that has a bullet in it. Buffalo hunting is thrilling and exhilarating, placing this formidable species at the top of every hunter’s wish list!”

It is understood that the hunt took place in the Bambisana hunting concession in Limpopo. According to the website, the concession is bigger than 50 000 acres, and a good place to hunt kudu, sable and Cape buffalo.

A hunter at heart

Watkins was a managing partner at Watkins Ranch Group in Dallas, Texas. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, according to the website, and posts he made on social media.

Caxton Network News contacted Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba to confirm if an inquest has been opened. His comment had not yet been received at the time of publishing.

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