A wealthy American trophy hunter was killed by a Cape buffalo during a hunting excursion in South Africa, according to Metro. Asher Watkins, 52, was chasing a 1.3-ton Cape buffalo bull in the 50,000-acre Bambisana concession on Sunday when the animal charged him at 35 mph. Mr. Watkins, who made his fortune trading ranches in the US, was on a 7,500-pound guided hunting trip with Coenraad Vermaak Safaris, tracking the 200-stone buffalo through the bush.
The buffalo's sudden attack on the hunters is still unclear. Locals refer to the Cape buffalo as "Black Death" due to its deadly nature, as it accounts for about 200 human fatalities each year, posing a greater threat to game hunters than lions, rhinos, or crocodiles.
The safari's website calls the animal "the most dangerous to pursue in Africa," noting, "No species has a more fearsome reputation than a Cape buffalo. It causes numerous deaths and injuries to hunters yearly. The buffalo is seen as the most dangerous animal to hunt in Africa. Buffalo hunting is thrilling, exhilarating, and at the top of every hunter's wish list. Clever and aggressive, it seeks safety in thickets when threatened or wounded. Buffalo can charge without warning, so be prepared for the worst."
Mr. Watkins' family, including his mother, Gwen, stepfather, and brother, Amon, was at the safari lodge when the tragedy occurred.
Hunter Hans Vermaak told The Sun: "With deep sadness and heavy hearts, we confirm the tragic death of our client and friend Asher Watkins from the USA. On Sunday, during a hunting safari with us in Limpopo Province, Asher was fatally hurt in a sudden and unprovoked attack by an unwounded buffalo. He was tracking it alongside one of our professional hunters and a tracker. This is a devastating incident, and our thoughts are with his loved ones."
"We are doing our utmost to assist the family members with us and those back in the United States as they cope with this tragic loss," Mr. Vermaak added.
Notably, Asher Watkins built his wealth through the Texas-based Watkins Ranch Group, selling luxury ranches valued at up to 30 million pounds. He was associated with Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty and was a member of the Dallas Safari Club. He was also recognized for his extensive collection of high-end hunting rifles.
His social media profiles highlight his passion for hunting and wildlife conservation, showcasing images of him with trophies such as mountain lions and deer.
