A Fatal Safari in Limpopo
A tragic hunting expedition in South Africa turned deadly when a Texas hunter was fatally attacked by a Cape buffalo he was stalking.
On August 3, 52-year-old ranch trader Asher Watkins joined a guided safari in Limpopo province. He was tracking a massive 1.3-ton Cape buffalo when the tables turned. Without warning, the powerful animal charged, delivering a fatal blow before anyone could react.
Sudden Turn from Hunter to Hunted
CV Safaris owner Hans Vermaak confirmed that Watkins was with a professional hunter and a tracker when the attack occurred. “Asher was fatally injured in a sudden and unprovoked attack by an unwounded buffalo,” Vermaak said in a statement on the company’s website.
He described the incident as “deeply traumatic” for everyone present and extended support to Watkins’ grieving family, both in South Africa and back in the United States.
Remembering Asher Watkins
In a heartfelt tribute, Vermaak expressed condolences to Watkins’ mother Gwen, daughter Savannah, brother Amon, stepfather Tony, and his many friends. He called the family “long-standing friends” and an integral part of the CV Safaris community.
Watkins was a managing partner at Watkins Ranch Group, a commercial real estate firm specializing in luxury ranches, farms, and land. His biography described him as someone who spent most of his life in the outdoors and as a “proud and devoted father.”
On his Facebook page, Watkins often shared photos from his hunting trips, proudly posing with deer, waterfowl, mountain lions, and other game.
The Cape Buffalo’s Deadly Reputation
The fate of the buffalo remains unknown, but CV Safaris’ website warns of the dangers these animals pose. Known as one of Africa’s most dangerous species, Cape buffaloes are responsible for numerous hunter fatalities and injuries each year.
“No species on the planet has a more fearsome reputation than a Cape buffalo,” the site warns, noting that only humans and lions typically prey on them.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for more updates on global wildlife incidents and international travel safety news.
