What began as an exciting adventure in the African wilderness ended in unimaginable tragedy.
Sources report that a routine safari hunt for Texas rancher and millionaire Asher Watkins turned deadly when a massive Cape buffalo unexpectedly charged. Could this horrific incident have been foreseen—or was it simply a reminder of nature’s untamed unpredictability?
A fatal safari incident in South Africa claimed the life of Asher Watkins, a Texas ranch businessman, after he was gored by a Cape buffalo, according to local safari operators.
Watkins, 52, was tracking a 1.3-ton Cape buffalo in the Limpopo region on Sunday when the animal charged, killing him instantly,
Coenraad and Vermaak Safari—the company that organized the expedition—confirmed. The buffalo was reportedly unharmed.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of our client and friend, Asher Watkins from the USA,” the safari company stated.
“He was following the buffalo with one of our professional hunters and a tracker. This heartbreaking event has deeply affected everyone involved, and our thoughts are with his family.”
Watkins’ mother, stepfather, and brother Amon were present at a nearby safari lodge when the attack occurred.
Asher Watkins was the founder and CEO of Watkins Ranch Group, a brokerage specializing in luxury ranch properties across Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, according to CNN. His company’s website highlighted his extensive experience and accomplishments in ranch real estate.
A devoted outdoorsman, Watkins was also an active member of the Dallas Safari Club and frequently shared his hunting experiences on social media, reflecting his passion for wildlife and adventure.
Born and raised in Dallas, Watkins grew up immersed in his family’s hunting and cattle ranch operations, which fueled his lifelong love of the outdoors.
His ex-wife, Courtney, and their teenage daughter, Savannah, were informed of the devastating news. Courtney shared a now-deleted message alongside a photo of their daughter, saying, “This photo is from another chapter in our lives; one that will always be part of our daughter’s story. We’ve been in shock and heartbreak, trying to process not only the loss but the complex emotions it brings.”
Cape buffalo, also known as African buffalo, are formidable animals, weighing up to 2,000 pounds and standing about 5.5 feet at the shoulder. Known for their unpredictable behavior, particularly when threatened or injured, they often move in herds that can number as many as 500 individuals.
🔹 Conclusion
This tragic hunting accident highlights the inherent dangers of wildlife encounters, even for seasoned outdoorsmen like Asher Watkins. Despite a lifetime dedicated to ranching and hunting, this incident serves as a stark reminder of nature’s raw power and unpredictability. Watkins’ legacy as a successful ranch entrepreneur and passionate hunter will be remembered, while his sudden passing leaves a family, friends, and community grappling with shock and grief.