World
South African Game Reserve Owner Trampled to Death by Elephant

A tragic incident occurred at Gondwana Private Game Reserve in South Africa when its CEO, FC Conradie, was trampled to death by a bull elephant. The shocking event took place on Tuesday at approximately 08:00 local time as the 39-year-old attempted to guide a group of elephants away from tourist lodges. Witnesses reported that a six-tonne African elephant charged at him, inflicting fatal injuries with its tusks before repeatedly trampling him.
The reserve, located near Mossel Bay, has previously been the site of another tragic death involving staff. In March 2022, game ranger David Kandela was killed by an elephant named Bonny while guiding a herd through the Eco Tent Lodge area. This recent fatality marks the second death caused by an elephant in similar circumstances at the 27,000-acre park, which is a popular destination for luxury safaris.
During the incident, the park was fully booked, with guests potentially witnessing the horrifying attack. It remains unclear if any visitors observed the events unfold. FC Conradie, who co-owned the exclusive five-star rated reserve, was known for his passion for wildlife and often engaged with the elephants to photograph them. His dedication to nature was well recognized among staff and visitors alike.
Management staff had the difficult task of informing his wife, La-ida Conradie, of the incident. She is reportedly devastated by the loss. The couple had been married for ten years and had three young children, aged six, eleven, and twelve. The family resides in Stellenbosch, approximately 48 kilometers from Cape Town, where La-ida works for Moore Stephens, a global accounting and financial advisory firm.
A senior source at Gondwana described FC Conradie as a beloved leader who had a deep connection with elephants. The source noted, “He loved his elephants, which were his favorites, and he felt he had a trust with them, but you have to never forget they may live in a reserve but are wild.” This sentiment underscores the inherent risks associated with wildlife interactions, even in controlled environments.
The South African Police confirmed the incident, stating that emergency services declared FC Conradie dead at the scene after he was attacked. Warrant Officer Kappie Kapp of the South African Police remarked, “An inquest has been opened and a full investigation is underway.”
A spokesperson for Gondwana expressed profound sadness over the loss of their CEO, stating, “This heart-breaking event has shaken us all.” The spokesperson emphasized that the reserve is committed to supporting FC Conradie‘s family and staff during this difficult time and is cooperating fully with the authorities to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Gondwana Private Game Reserve is renowned for its Big Five game viewing, which includes lions, buffalo, rhinoceros, leopards, and elephants. It has been a favored destination for celebrities and affluent tourists seeking exclusive safari experiences. As the investigation continues, the reserve’s management is focused on ensuring the safety of both visitors and wildlife, reaffirming the need for caution when interacting with wild animals.
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