A British tourist and her friend from New Zealand have been killed on a walking safari in Zambia.
The pair were attacked by a charging elephant at Big Lagoon Bush Camp in South Luangwa National Park, around 370 miles from the African country’s capital, Lusaka.
Police said safari guides attempted to deter the animal by firing shots and wounded it but were not able to prevent the attack.
Eastern Province Police Commissioner Robertson Mweemba confirmed the tragic incident and named the victims as Easton Janet Taylor, 68, from the UK and Alison Jean Taylor, 67.
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The commissioner said the attack happened shortly after 6am local time yesterday (3 July). Both dying at the scene, the women were attacked by a female elephant that was accompanied by its calf.
Female elephants are, of course, known for being very protective of their calves and can therefore react aggressively if they perceive something to be a threat.
Mweemba explained to reporters that two female tourists were taking a safari walk when they ‘spotted an elephant with a calf at a distance and diverted about 50m away’.
“But within few minutes after diverting a tea bearer who is usually behind saw the elephant charging at them," he said.
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"He shouted 'elephants'. As they turned to see, they saw it charging at a high speed and due to the fact that female Alison Jean Taylor, 67, of New Zealand had a leg problem, she was caught first.
"While the Wildlife Police Officer fired warning shots, female Easton Janet Taylor, 68, a British National was caught as well."
The two women had stayed in the camp for four days and were going to another, named Takwela Camp.
As per 1News NZ, a local paid tribute to the pair: “Near Big Lagoon Bush Camp, at sunrise, a walk meant to explore turned sorrowful when a nursing elephant, accompanied by her calf, charged out of instinct.
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"Despite the presence of trained guides, the moment unfolded too swiftly.
"Alison and Easton had spent four peaceful days immersed in nature’s embrace. Their journey was meant to continue — but instead, we remember them for their courage, their curiosity, and their love for life’s wild places."
On the South Luangwa National Park site, it says: “You don’t have to travel to the most remote areas of the park to see some amazing animal sights.
"In fact, don’t be surprised if a handful of elephants wander in and out of your camp, as they have a habit of making themselves welcome."
An FCDO Spokesperson said: “We are supporting the family of a British woman who has died in Zambia and are in contact with the local authorities.”
Jess Battison