AFRICA (trfnews.i234.me) – In a devastating turn of events during a game drive in Zambia, Gail Mattson, a 79-year-old woman from Minnesota, lost her life after a bull elephant charged the vehicle she was in. TRF News confirmed the heartbreaking incident with Mattson’s family on Thursday.
Gail Mattson, described as an adventurous traveler, sustained fatal injuries in the elephant attack. Her family revealed that Mattson split her time between Minnesota and Arizona and was eagerly anticipating her upcoming 80th birthday celebration in July.
Known for her active involvement in her church and community bridge club in Sun City West, Arizona, Mattson was passionate about exploring new destinations. According to close friends, John Longabaugh and Brenda Biggs, going on an African safari had always been a dream for Mattson.
The tragic incident occurred during a game drive organized by Wilderness, a conservation and hospitality company, on March 30. While Mattson succumbed to her injuries, four other guests sustained minor injuries, and one was taken to a private medical facility in South Africa.
Despite the expertise of the guides, the elephant charge caught the group off guard due to challenging terrain and vegetation, explained Wilderness CEO Keith Vincent.
As investigations continue with the involvement of local authorities and wildlife management agencies, Wilderness assured full cooperation. Plans are underway to repatriate Mattson’s remains to her family in the United States with the assistance of Zambian authorities and the U.S. Embassy in Lusaka.
Our thoughts are with Gail Mattson’s family and friends during this difficult time.