Overview
- A 69-year-old Canadian died after a private guide allegedly accidentally discharged a rifle during a concession-operated bush braai near Phabeni Gate on Wednesday evening.
- Mpumalanga police arrested a 38-year-old private guide and opened cases of culpable homicide and reckless handling of a firearm.
- SANParks confirmed the gathering was run by a licensed concessionaire and said it is cooperating with the South African Police Service while investigations continue.
- Police say the tourist asked whether the rifle was real and was struck in the upper body as the guide demonstrated the weapon; first aid and paramedics attended but the victim was certified dead at the scene.
- Private guides in Kruger commonly carry heavy-calibre rifles for wildlife safety, a practice that has drawn new scrutiny after recent violent incidents in the park and that may shape any review of handling rules and concession oversight.