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Asher Watkins, a millionaire ranch broker and prominent Texas trophy hunter, died after being gored by a buffalo he was tracking on a hunting trip in South Africa. The 52-year-old was killed in a “sudden and unprovoked attack” by a 1.3-ton Cape buffalo, sometimes called “Black Death,” according to Coenraad Vermaak Safaris (CVS), the company that organized the trip.
“This is a devastating incident, and our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” CVS hunter Hans Vermaak told Newsweek.
**Why It Matters**
Watkins’ death highlights both the inherent dangers of big-game hunting in Africa and the ongoing debate surrounding trophy hunting by wealthy international clients. The Cape buffalo is notorious for being one of Africa’s most dangerous game animals, killing around 200 people annually in southern Africa, according to Kenya Wild Parks.
**What To Know**
On August 3, Watkins was on a guided safari organized by CVS in the Bambisana concession of Limpopo Province, South Africa. He and his guide and tracker were pursuing a prized Cape buffalo when it charged at approximately 35 mph and gored Watkins almost instantly. His mother Gwen, brother Amon, and stepfather Tony were waiting at the safari lodge.
Watkins founded and managed the Watkins Ranch Group, a Dallas-based firm trading in luxury ranch properties across Texas and other states. He was affiliated with real estate brands such as Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty and LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, reported The Dallas Morning News.
**What People Are Saying**
CVS hunter Hans Vermaak said: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts we confirm the tragic death of our client and friend Asher Watkins from the USA. On Sunday, while on a hunting safari in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, Asher was fatally injured in a sudden and unprovoked attack by an unwounded buffalo.”
Close friend Shannon Wherry said: “On an African safari with his beloved mother, brother, and stepdad, Asher came face-to-face with one of Africa’s legendary buffalo. In a moment of fearlessness as he lived his life, he met the challenge head-on, leaving this world a man of courage, faith, and adventure.”
Real estate colleague Tyler Thomas told The Dallas Morning News: “Asher had a gregarious personality. He never met a stranger. He was not shy, and he wasn’t afraid to speak his mind—which I respected. He was a loyal friend.”
**What Happens Next**
South African authorities have opened an inquest into Watkins’ death. Coenraad Vermaak Safaris is supporting the Watkins family and cooperating with local officials as the investigation continues.
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📚 Reading Comprehension Quiz
What animal caused the death of Asher Watkins during his hunting trip in South Africa?
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