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American hunter killed by charging Cape buffalo during South African expedition
An American game hunter has died after being fatally gored by a Cape buffalo during a hunting expedition in South Africa’s Limpopo province, according to reports confirmed by the safari company organizing the trip.
Asher Watkins, a 52-year-old Texas resident and managing partner at a real estate group, was tracking a 1.3-ton Cape buffalo on 3 August when the animal suddenly charged at high speed, fatally wounding him.
Coenraad Vermaak Safaris (CV Safaris), the outfitter responsible for the expedition, released a statement expressing their deep sorrow over the incident. “It is with heavy hearts that we confirm the tragic death of our client and friend, Asher Watkins, who was fatally injured in an unprovoked attack by an unwounded buffalo while on safari with one of our professional hunters and trackers,” the statement read.
According to local reports, the buffalo charged at approximately 35 mph (56 km/h), catching Watkins by surprise.
Family members, including Watkins’ brother, mother, and stepfather, were at the safari lodge at the time of the incident. His teenage daughter and ex-wife, who remain in the United States, have also received support from the safari company.
On its website, CV Safaris warns of the dangers associated with hunting Cape buffalo, calling them one of the most dangerous species for hunters.
Watkins, a Baylor University graduate, was known for his love of the outdoors and had frequently shared photos of his hunting trips on social media.
His ex-wife confirmed the news in a heartfelt post, stating that the family is devastated and that their daughter Savannah is mourning her father’s sudden death.