A teenager who was trampled by an elephant near Mopane on Monday has been identified as William Andrew, a British student based at the Mooketsi Conservation Centre in Limpopo.
The provincial department of economic development, environment and tourism said the incident occurred while the elephant was being trained.
”Andrew was working nearby while a few people were training the elephant and it trampled him,” said departmental spokesperson Tseli Moses.
”It happened suddenly and nobody could prevent it. Andrew was taken to a hospital in Polokwane with head injuries. He is reported to be in a stable condition.”
Moses said the department is not sure whether Andrew (18) will remain at Mooketsi or whether he will return to Britain once he is discharged.
”Andrew’s father met with us this morning [Wednesday]. He said he appreciated the department’s help and that the family was still deciding on whether the boy will stay here or go back.”
Andrew has been registered with the department to study wildlife at the centre in Mooketsi for less than a year.
Moses said the elephant has not been put down because the trainers regard the incident as a freak accident. — Sapa