Millionaire trophy hunter killed by ‘Black Death’ buffalo he was trying to take down

Other hunters called it an ‘unprovoked attack’

52-year-old millionaire and trophy hunter, Asher Watkins, was killed earlier this week when the Cape buffalo he was trying to kill charged at him.

On Sunday, the big game hunter was on safari with a professional hunter and a tracker in the 50,000-acre Bambisana concession. Having flown into Johannesburg Airport, Asher had successfully gunned down a waterbuck on day one. It was on day two that he met the 3,000lb bull, which reportedly charged at him at 35mph.

Cape buffalo, terrifyingly nicknamed the “black death”, are widely regarded as one of the most dangerous animals in Africa. They are responsible for around 200 deaths a year and kill more game hunters than lions, elephants, rhinos and even crocodiles.

“No species on the planet has a more fearsome reputation than a Cape Buffalo. Responsible for several deaths and many injuries to hunters each year,” a warning on the safari company’s website reads. “The buffalo is regarded as the most dangerous animal to pursue in Africa. Buffalo hunting is thrilling and exhilarating, and at the top of every hunter’s wish list. Asher Watkins was killed instantly by the buffalo

The hunt, which cost a staggering $10,000, was organised by Coenraad Vermaak Safaris, which offers packages to kill hippos, crocodiles, kudu, leopards, lions, eland, and, of course, buffalo.

The safari company called it an “unprovoked attack” as it revealed that Asher Watkins was killed almost instantly by the enormous beast.

Speaking for Coenraad Vermaak Safaris, Hunter Hans Vermaak said: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts we confirm the tragic death of our client and friend Asher Watkins from the USA. On Sunday, 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 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. 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.”

Watkins’ ex-wife Courtney and teenage daughter Savannah were informed of the news, with a close friend of the family detailing his strong familial bonds.

“He spent every spare moment he could with Savannah and shared his life with her,” they said. “Nobody could love a daughter more than he did. She will be broken to lose Asher, who was her best friend as well as her dad.”

Another friend, Shannon Wherry, also said: “On an African safari with his beloved mother, brother and stepdad, Asher came face to face with one of Africa’s legendary buffalo. In a moment of fearlessness, as he lived his life, he met the challenge head-on, leaving this world a man of courage, faith, and adventure.”

South African officials have opened an investigation into his death.