Safari park owner killed by rampaging elephant in front of tourists as tributes pour in

Safari park owner killed by elephant in front of tourists as tributes pour inGary Freeman was leading a group of four tourists on a hike through the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve in South Africa when the horrifying elephant attack took placeNewsPaige Ingram23:42, 18 Apr 2026Updated 23:59, 18 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesGary Freeman sadly died after a horror elephant attack(Image: Claire Galaway | Insidehook)A safari park owner has been killed by an elephant in what witnesses called a “dreadful” attack.‌Gary was leading a group of four tourists on a hike through the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve in South Africa when the horrifying attack took place. The animal was hidden behind trees and suddenly ran at Gary out of nowhere.‌A source said the attack was “all over quickly”, saying: “Gary tried to break the charge but he never fired a shot. The elephant was very quickly on him and it was as you can imagine not pleasant."The tourists then rushed to get Freeman onto a vehicle, but said “nothing could be done”.‌View 2 ImagesKlaserie Private Nature Reserve(Image: klaseriereserve.co.za)“He had succumbed to his dreadful injuries,” The Sun reported.A statement on the reserve's Facebook page reads: "In Loving Memory of Gary Freeman. It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Gary Freeman, a valued and respected member of the Klaserie community. Gary was a true gentleman and an integral part of the fabric of the Klaserie. His presence, kindness, and contribution to this landscape will be deeply missed by all who knew him.‌"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Hanneke, his family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time. We ask that their privacy be respected as they navigate this loss. In moments like these, the strength of the Klaserie lies in its community — in supporting one another with care, compassion, and understanding."Gary will always remain part of the Klaserie."Tributes poured in in the comments section. One pe...