American Hunter Dies After Elephant Trampling in Gabon

A wealthy American hunter has lost his life in Gabon following an unexpected and fatal encounter with a group of elephants. Ernie Dosio, 75, was participating in a licensed hunting expedition when he and his professional guide stumbled upon a herd of five elephants, which included a young calf.

The animals were reportedly hidden within thick vegetation when the surprise encounter occurred. According to reports, the elephants charged, initially attacking the professional hunter and disarming him of his rifle. In the ensuing chaos, Dosio was left with only a shotgun, and tragically, he was trampled to death by the agitated herd.

Collect Africa, a safari operator, confirmed the fatal incident involving a client on April 17, also noting that their professional guide sustained injuries. The company stated that they are collaborating with relevant authorities and the victim's family to manage the situation.

Dosio, who resided in California, was known as an experienced hunter with a history of pursuing various game animals across Africa and the United States. He was the owner of Pacific AgriLands Inc., a firm managing extensive vineyard properties. His reputation was also built on an impressive collection of hunting trophies, including those of large African animals like elephants, lions, rhinos, and buffalo.

Beyond his hunting pursuits, Dosio was actively involved in several organisations, such as the Sacramento Safari Club and California Wildfowl, and held a significant position within the Elks Lodge community network, which is known for its charitable activities.

Associates remembered Dosio as a prominent figure in both the hunting community and his local area. One colleague remarked on Dosio's lifelong passion for hunting, stating, “Ernie has been hunting since he could hold a rifle and has many trophies from Africa and the US… What happened has been deeply felt by many each side of the Atlantic.”

Reports indicate that Dosio's hunting trip, which cost approximately £30,000, was intended to target species such as the yellow-backed duiker and dwarf forest buffalo under strict permit regulations. These regulations mandated the use of firearms supplied by the hunting outfitter.

Gabon is recognized as the habitat for approximately 60% of the world's remaining forest elephant population, inhabiting vast, dense rainforests where wildlife encounters can be unpredictable. Wildlife experts highlight that elephants, especially mothers with their young, can exhibit aggressive behaviour when they perceive a threat.

The U.S. Embassy in Gabon is currently providing assistance for the repatriation of Dosio's remains to his family in California. Gabon, renowned for its extensive forest cover, serves as a crucial sanctuary for forest elephants, a species known for its protective instincts, particularly when calves are vulnerable.