Story By: Kathryn Quinn, Sub-Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Central European News
A Swiss doctor has died after his vehicle crashed into a giraffe whilst he was on safari.
The man named in Swiss media as Robert L., 66, was on safari in the Kruger National Park in South Africa when a minibus pushed a giraffe into the path of his safari camper van.
The man was airlifted to hospital and doctors in South Africa battled to save the man for three days, but have now confirmed that he has died on the intensive care ward of the hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa.
SANParks Spokesman Ike Paahla said: “We want to extend our sincere sympathies to the family of the man.”
“The medical personnel who rushed to the scene of the accident stabilised the Swiss driver, before airlifting him to a medical facility.
“The accident resulted in the death of the giraffe; whilst two occupants from the combi were also treated for minor injuries.”
Robert L from Thurgau, Switzerland had travelled to South Africa with his wife where they rented a Ford Ranger Camper van to go on safari.
The accident happened when a giraffe crossed over the road and was hit by a mini bus taxi carrying 13 people when the 18-foot tall giraffe which weighed about 1,650 lbs completely crushed the front of the bus before then smashing in the roof and front of the Swiss family’s Ford Ranger camper.
Robert L. was completely crushed by the animal. His wife escaped with minor injuries.
Connie Oosthuizen who was on the scene of the accident said: “I saw the scene of the accident and saw a man lying on the road with a group of people around him. The giraffe was lying dead nearby.
“The victim had some piece of clothing tied around his bleeding head, they were asking for a first-aid kit. There was no mobile phone reception, I drove to get help.”
South African police believe the taxi driver was travelling too fast and did not comply with the speed restrictions. Police confirmed he could face charges for causing death by dangerous driving.
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