Husband Sues Tour Company After Wife’s Fatal Hippo Attack on Safari
The husband of a New Jersey woman killed by a hippo during a safari is suing a U.S. tour company for negligence. The lawsuit claims the company failed to provide proper safety warnings. The incident highlights the dangers posed by hippos, which are known to be very territorial and aggressive.
A New Jersey man, Craig Manders, has filed a lawsuit against a U.S. tour operator after his wife, Lisa Manders, was killed by a hippopotamus during an African safari. The incident occurred on June 5, 2024, while they were participating in a guided “bush walk” in Zambia, where Lisa was attacked near a river by a hippo that charged from the water.
The lawsuit claims that African Portfolio, based in Connecticut, failed to ensure a safe environment and did not adequately warn the couple of the potential dangers posed by hippos. Craig stated that had they understood the threat hippos present, they would have avoided being on foot near the water.
According to the complaint, hippos are responsible for around 500 human deaths annually and are considered one of Africa’s most dangerous land animals. The lawsuit highlights that hippos can weigh over 3,000 pounds and are highly aggressive, especially when their territory is threatened.
Craig Manders is seeking at least $15,000 for funeral costs and emotional damages stemming from the traumatic loss of his wife. Responding to the lawsuit, African Portfolio’s attorney, Rod Gould, contended that their company merely organizes tours and is not liable for unforeseen incidents during trips.
The couple had booked a 10-day safari and were informed about existing wildlife risks, but did not receive sufficient warnings about hippos. The lawsuit further claims that tour guides encouraged guests to come closer to the hippo, neglecting to address the animal’s territorial behavior.
Zambian Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba, stated that authorities are investigating the tragic event while expressing condolences to the Manders family. Lisa Manders had a long career in finance, contributing over 20 years to Merrill Lynch before her untimely death.
The lawsuit against African Portfolio stems from a tragic incident where a tourist was killed by a hippopotamus during a safari. The case emphasizes the necessity for tour companies to provide adequate safety information about wildlife risks. As investigations proceed, the incident raises concerns regarding tour operator responsibilities for guest safety in potentially dangerous environments.
Original Source: www.usatoday.com
