Dallas, Texas — A Texas millionaire who reveled in big game hunting has died after being gored by a Cape buffalo in South Africa. The incident occurred on Sunday while Asher Watkins, 52, was on a safari expedition.
According to sources, Watkins was tracking the buffalo alongside a professional hunter and an animal tracker when the unexpected encounter took a tragic turn. Reports indicate that the bull charged, striking Watkins and resulting in his immediate death.
Watkins, known for regularly posting photographs of his hunts on social media, was well-acquainted with the risks involved in hunting dangerous game. He was a managing partner at Watkins Ranch Group and was reportedly on this trip with family members who shared a safari lodge nearby when the incident happened.
A representative from Coenraad Vermaak Safaris, the company organizing the hunt, expressed deep condolences following Watkins’ death. They described the event as devastating, offering support to his family during this challenging time. The organization also noted that Cape buffaloes are infamous for their unpredictable and aggressive nature, with warnings highlighting their potential danger to hunters.
Cape buffalo bulls can weigh nearly 1,900 pounds and possess formidable horns that can reach 40 inches in length. These traits contribute to their reputation as one of the most treacherous animals to pursue in the wild, with numerous fatalities recorded annually.
Watkins leaves behind a daughter, as well as a stepfather, mother, and brother, who were reportedly at the safari lodge when the tragedy occurred. His ex-wife, Courtney, shared heartfelt words on social media, reflecting on the shock and heartbreak surrounding the loss. She emphasized the challenges ahead as her daughter copes with the death of her father.
As hunting continues to stir debate over conservation and animal rights, incidents like this serve as a tragic reminder of the inherent risks involved in pursuing dangerous wildlife.