Elephants trampled a tourist in South Africa (3 photos)

A Spanish tourist has died after being attacked by elephants in South Africa's Pilanesberg National Park. The man got out of his car while on safari and approached the animals to take a photo.





"The man stopped the car... and approached the elephants to take a photo," police spokesman Sabata Mokgwabone said. Authorities added that the 43-year-old Spaniard was in the company of his fiancee.

The Northwest Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) said the elephant charged the man and the rest of the herd joined in. The tourist was unable to escape and was trampled to death.

"The elephants immediately left the scene, were not aggressive towards nearby vehicles, and eventually disappeared into the bushes."



NWPTB Chief Conservation Officer Peter Nel said the elephant became "agitated" when she saw the man approaching the herd and rushed to "protect her young."

"Many tourists don't realize how dangerous these animals can be," Nel added.

The victim's fiancee and two other female passengers were unharmed.



Pilanesberg National Park officials warn visitors to keep windows closed and not leave their cars.