California Vineyard Owner Killed by Elephants During Gabon Hunting Trip

Ernie Dosio, a 75-year-old millionaire and vineyard owner from Lodi, California, was killed after being trampled by five elephants during a hunting expedition in Gabon on Friday, April 17, 2026. The experienced big-game hunter was accompanied by a professional guide when the group encountered the animals in a dense forest.

According to the Daily Mail, the incident involved five female forest elephants traveling with a calf. The safari company Collect Africa confirmed the fatality and noted that the professional hunter assisting Dosio also sustained injuries during the encounter. The U.S. Embassy and Dosio’s family are currently coordinating the return of his remains to California.

The California-Hawaii Elks Association acknowledged the loss of the long-time member through a statement issued by Tommy Whitman, the secretary of Lodi Lodge 1900 and Central District Scouting chairman.

“It is with a most heavy heart and sadness that I am reporting the passing of Ernie Dosio earlier this week.” stated Whitman.

The fraternal organization expressed their condolences to the family following the sudden news of the vineyard owner’s death abroad.

“May all of our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones,” added the statement from the Lodi Lodge.

Whitman concluded the announcement by highlighting the impact the hunter had on his local community.

“He will be sorely missed.” Whitman noted.

A retired game hunter based in Cape Town, who was acquainted with Dosio, provided additional details to the Daily Mail regarding the nature of the forest elephant charge.

“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,” said the retired hunter.

The witness suggested that the speed of the attack likely meant the victim did not suffer for an extended period, while reflecting on Dosio’s reputation in the hunting and conservation circles.

“I would rather not go into detail, but it is safe to assume it would have been quick,” the hunter stated.

The acquaintance further emphasized Dosio’s philanthropic efforts and his status as a prominent figure within the international hunting community.

“Ernie was a very well-known and popular hunter in the U.S. 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.” said the associate.

A family friend described the local reaction in Lodi as one of profound shock, comparing the news to an explosion within the community. The friend told the Daily Mail that Dosio’s return will be marked by a significant memorial service.

“The news of his death in Africa was like a bomb going off here,” a family friend said.

The source noted that the elephants reportedly appeared suddenly, leaving little time for the hunting party to react.

“It has been said the elephants came out of nowhere. One thing is for sure, he will get a huge send-off.” the friend added.