A 69-year-old tourist from Canada has died after a firearm was allegedly discharged by accident during a braai at South Africa’s Kruger National Park.
The incident happened on Wednesday evening at a concession-operated braai picnic area near Phabeni Gate, according to The Citizen, citing South African National Parks officials.
The guest was reportedly part of a group that had been booked outside the park and entered for a bush braai experience.
Firearm Allegedly Discharged by Private Guide
According to the report, the firearm was allegedly discharged by a private guide linked to the concession.
The shot injured the Canadian tourist during the braai. The tourist later died.
No further details about the circumstances of the shooting have been confirmed. The matter is still developing.
Police Investigation Under Way
The South African Police Service was on the scene and conducting investigations, according to the original report.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether any arrests have been made or whether charges will follow.
The identity of the tourist has also not been released.
What is a Private Concession?
A private concession is an area leased from government and managed by private operators.
These operators can include safari companies that run tourism experiences inside or around protected areas.
The incident has placed fresh attention on safety during guided tourism activities in one of South Africa’s most visited wildlife destinations.
Kruger National Park remains a major drawcard for local and international visitors, with many tourists booking private bush experiences as part of their trips.
For now, police are working to establish exactly how the firearm was discharged and what happened in the moments before the shooting.
This is a developing story and more details are expected as the investigation continues.
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