An American millionaire and big game hunter has died after being killed by a buffalo during a hunting trip to South Africa.
Texan ranch trader Asher Watkins, 52, was stalking a Cape buffalo in the northern province of Limpopo on Sunday, Aug. 3, when the animal fatally struck him, Coenraad Vermaak Safaris confirmed to PEOPLE in a statement on Thursday, Aug. 7.
“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts we confirm the tragic death of our client and friend Asher Watkins from the USA,” Hans Vermaak said in the statement.
“On Sunday 3rd August, while on a hunting safari with us in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, Asher was fatally injured in a sudden and unprovoked attack by an unwounded buffalo,” he added.
“He was tracking it together with one of our professional hunters and one of our trackers. This is a devastating incident, and our hearts go out to his loved ones,” Vermaak continued.
Watkin’s ex-wife Courtney also announced his death on Facebook with an emotional tribute, which has since been removed from the social media site.
“This photo is from another time, another chapter of our lives — but it’s one that will always be a part of our daughter’s story,” she wrote alongside a throwback photo of themselves with their daughter. “On Sunday, August 3, Asher Watkins, died suddenly in a tragic accident involving a Cape buffalo while on a hunting trip in South Africa.”
“We are doing everything we can to support the family members who are here with us and those back in the United States as they navigate this tragic loss.”
“This is a deeply traumatic incident for all involved. The family and our team members who were present at the time are understandably shaken,” Vermaak added. “Our deepest condolences go out to Asher’s family.
“The family are long-standing friends and part of the CVS family,” he concluded. “We hold them close in our thoughts and prayers.”
