A tragic hunting accident in South Africa claimed the life of Asher Watkins, a wealthy Texas ranch realtor, after he was fatally gored by a massive Cape buffalo, local safari operators confirmed.
Watkins, 52, was pursuing a 1.3-ton Cape buffalo in the Limpopo region on Sunday when the animal suddenly charged, resulting in his immediate death, according to Coenraad and Vermaak Safari, the company that arranged the trip. The buffalo was unharmed during the incident, as per the New York Post.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of our client and friend, Asher Watkins from the USA,” the safari company said in a statement to Metro. “He was tracking the buffalo alongside one of our professional hunters and a tracker. This heartbreaking event has deeply affected everyone involved, and our thoughts are with his family.”
Watkins’ mother, stepfather, and brother Amon were waiting at a nearby safari lodge when the fatal attack occurred, reports said.
Asher Watkins was the founder and CEO of Watkins Ranch Group, a brokerage firm specializing in the sale of luxury ranch properties across Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, according to CNN. His company’s website highlights his extensive experience and success in the ranch real estate business.
An avid outdoorsman, Watkins was also an active member of the Dallas Safari Club and regularly shared his hunting adventures on social media, where he showcased his passion for wildlife pursuits.
Born and raised in Dallas, Watkins grew up working on his family’s hunting and cattle ranch, a background that fueled his lifelong love of the outdoors.
Watkins’ ex-wife, Courtney, and their teenage daughter, Savannah, have been informed of the devastating news. Courtney posted a now-deleted message with a photo of their daughter, writing, “This photo is from another chapter in our lives; one that will always be part of our daughter’s story. We’ve been in shock and heartbreak, trying to come to terms with not only the loss but the complicated emotions that come with it.”
Cape buffalo, also known as African buffalo, are formidable animals weighing up to 2,000 pounds and standing about 5.5 feet tall at the shoulder. Known for their unpredictable temperament, especially when threatened or wounded, they often travel in large herds that can number up to 500 individuals.