Man Sues U.S. Safari Company After Wife’s Fatal Hippo Attack in Zambia
A New Jersey man is suing a U.S. safari company after his wife was killed by a hippo in Zambia. He alleges negligence, claiming the company did not ensure safety or adequately supervise guides. The tour company denies responsibility, stating their role was to arrange logistics, not conduct tours.
A New Jersey man is suing a U.S. tour company after his wife was killed by a hippopotamus during a safari in Zambia. The lawsuit claims African Portfolio failed to ensure proper safety measures and did not adequately supervise or vet the tour guides. This incident occurred in June when Lisa Manders was attacked while participating in a guided walking safari, leading to her death shortly after due to massive injuries.
The lawsuit, filed in Stamford, Connecticut, alleges that onlookers, including armed guides, did not assist during the attack as Craig Manders, her husband, helplessly observed. Attorney Paul Slager, representing Craig, stated this incident never should have happened and emphasized the need for safety standards in the tour industry. The lawsuit aims for damages and accountability to prevent future incidents.
The Manders were in Zambia for an anniversary trip, and this was their first safari. Lisa Manders, 70, was remembered for her passion for travel and her family, including three children and a granddaughter. Craig Manders is not giving interviews but seeks justice for his wife’s tragic death.
The lawyer for African Portfolio, Rodney Gould, insists the company was not negligent, noting they only arranged the trip while the local lodge, Chiawa Safaris, provided the guides. Gould reflects on the tragedy of the situation, asserting that African Portfolio did not conduct the safari but merely facilitated the arrangements. He plans either to dismiss the lawsuit or move for arbitration based on prior agreements.
African Portfolio contends that they arranged accommodations and that Chiawa was responsible for the safari and safety measures, which they claim were communicated to guests before the incident. They have expressed deep sympathy for the Manders family and have emphasized the efforts made to support them post-incident. Reports indicate that safety advisories were supposedly given prior to the safari.
The lawsuit highlights the dangers inherent in safaris, attributing responsibility to African Portfolio for allowing the Manders to be in a perilous situation with the hippopotamus. It alleges negligence in the selection and supervision of tour guides meant to ensure tourist safety, claiming the company failed to protect their clients during the dangerous encounter with wildlife.
Hippos, known for being aggressive and territorial, can weigh up to 7,000 pounds and are responsible for numerous injuries and fatalities each year. The lawsuit indicates that Lisa Manders experienced fear and suffering before her death, while Craig Manders suffers from severe psychological trauma due to witnessing the attack. The lawsuit charges the company with negligence and seeks damages for both loss and emotional distress from the incident.
The lawsuit filed by Craig Manders against African Portfolio raises significant concerns regarding safety protocols in safari tourism. The tragic circumstances surrounding Lisa Manders’ death underscore the unpredictability of wildlife encounters. As the company defends its role, the case highlights the responsibilities tour operators have in protecting clients during potentially dangerous activities.
Original Source: apnews.com
