Lawsuit Filed Against Tour Operator After Fatal Hippo Attack in Zambia
A New Jersey man has sued a safari tour operator after his wife was killed by a hippo during a safari in Zambia. Craig Manders claims the operator was negligent in allowing close contact with the dangerous animal. Legal representatives highlight the responsibilities of tour guides in ensuring the safety of clients to prevent such tragedies.
Craig Manders, a New Jersey resident, has initiated legal proceedings against a safari tour operator following the tragic death of his wife, Lisa, who was attacked by a hippopotamus in Africa. The incident occurred in Zambia during a safari organized by African Portfolio, a Connecticut-based company, where Manders claims the tour guides exhibited negligence that led to his wife’s fatal encounter with the animal.
In his lawsuit, Manders recounts the terrifying experience of witnessing his wife’s death. He emphasized that had they understood the risks associated with being in proximity to hippos, they would not have participated in such activities. “The idea that we were unwittingly exposed to such an extreme danger is astonishing,” he stated in comments shared by his legal representation.
Rod Gould, a legal representative for African Portfolio, described the event as a rare tragedy. He noted that while the company organizes safari tours with reputable lodges, it is not accountable for unforeseen incidents during these excursions. Gould highlighted that the company functions primarily as a tour organizer.
Manders’ account details their safari journey, which began on May 31, 2024. Following several days of activities, the couple participated in a bush walk where they encountered a hippo on the riverbank. The lawsuit outlines the inherent dangers posed by hippos, emphasizing their territorial and unpredictable nature, particularly when approached by humans.
The lawsuit further alleges that the guides left the group, including Manders and his wife, unprotected near the potentially dangerous hippo. Subsequently, the animal charged at Lisa Manders and attacked her violently. The legal documentation describes the horrific assault in detail, concluding that she suffered fatal injuries as a result.
In remembrance of Lisa Manders, described as an exemplary mother and wife who dedicated over four decades to the financial sector, her husband expressed the profound loss felt by their family and community. The incident has garnered attention within Zambia as local authorities commented on the situation, with the minister of tourism offering condolences and confirming ongoing investigations into the attack.
Manders’ attorneys voiced their belief that the tragedy was entirely avoidable. They stressed the responsibility of wilderness guides and tour operators like African Portfolio to enforce safety protocols to protect clients from extreme hazards during their adventures in the wild.
In conclusion, the lawsuit filed by Craig Manders against African Portfolio underscores the dire consequences of negligence in safari operations. The tragic loss of Lisa Manders highlights the importance of adhering to safety precautions when engaging with wildlife. This incident serves as a stark reminder for tour operators to prioritize the safety of their customers, particularly in unpredictable environments such as the African wilderness.
Original Source: www.nbcnews.com
