Big game hunter trampled to death by elephants

A wealthy American big game hunter has been trampled to death by elephants while stalking antelope in Central Africa.

Ernie Dosio, 75, was killed in Gabon’s Lopé-Okanda forest, the Daily Mail reported.

Dosio and his professional hunting guide had surprised a group of five elephants. The herd then charged the pair.

The Californian vineyard owner had booked to hunt for dwarf forest buffalo and duikers – in particular, the yellow-backed duiker – another hunter who knew Dosio told the paper.

“Whilst in the forest, Ernie and his PH (professional hunter) surprised five forest elephant cows with a calf. Feeling under threat, the elephants immediately attacked them.”

Dosio’s professional guide was attacked first and seriously injured, losing his rifle. Dosio was left with his shotgun.

“I would rather not go into detail, but it is safe to assume it would have been quick,” Dosio’s friend said.

“Ernie was a very well-known and popular hunter in the US and in Africa and a very keen conservationist and he did a hell of a lot of charity work and was a really good guy.

“What happened has been deeply felt by many each side of the Atlantic.”