VICTORIA FALLS – A fatal collision between a vehicle and an elephant on the Kazungula Road, approximately 40 kilometres from Victoria Falls, has resulted in one death and injuries to five others. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday evening, highlights the ongoing risks of wildlife encounters in the region.
A Toyota Isis, carrying six passengers, was travelling towards Victoria Falls City when the driver attempted to overtake a stationary vehicle displaying hazard lights. Unbeknownst to the driver, the vehicle had stopped to avoid colliding with a sub-adult elephant.
The overtaking manoeuvre placed the Toyota Isis directly in the path of the elephant, resulting in a devastating collision. The force of the impact propelled the elephant onto the roof of the car, sending the vehicle careening approximately 100 metres into the bush. The six occupants were trapped inside the wreckage.
“The vehicle struck the elephant, which subsequently landed on the roof of the car,” reports indicated.
Tragically, the front-seat passenger was pronounced dead at the scene. The remaining five occupants sustained injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Rangers from the Department of Parks and Wildlife were called to the scene. To recover the deceased and alleviate the elephant’s suffering, they were forced to euthanise the injured animal.
This tragedy highlights the need for measures to reduce human-wildlife conflict. Improved road signage, increased patrols, and public awareness campaigns are crucial to protecting both human life and Zimbabwe’s wildlife.
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