(MENAFN) Two tourists were killed during a safari in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park after a female elephant with a calf charged at their group, authorities confirmed on Thursday.

The victims were identified as 68-year-old Easton Janet Taylor from the UK and 67-year-old Alison Jean Taylor from New Zealand. The incident occurred about 600km from Lusaka, according to Eastern Province Police Commissioner Robertson Mweemba.

The tourists were walking with guides from Big Lagoon Camp to Takwela Camp, planning to cross the Luangwa River by canoe. The elephant reportedly charged at high speed. Due to a leg issue, Alison Taylor was caught first, followed by Easton Taylor, despite attempts by wildlife officers to deter the animal with warning shots.

Both women died on site.

The tragedy adds to a growing list of fatal elephant encounters involving tourists in Zambia. Earlier in 2024, an American woman was killed when an elephant overturned a safari vehicle in Kafue National Park, and another tourist died in June after being trampled near Livingstone.

Zambia is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to 20 national parks and 36 Game Management Areas, covering nearly 30% of the country’s land. The region hosts the iconic "Big Five" species and is a major destination for wildlife tourism.

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