New Jersey Man Sues Safari Company Over Wife’s Fatal Hippo Attack in Zambia
Craig Manders has filed a lawsuit against African Portfolio after the death of his wife, Lisa, who was attacked by a hippopotamus during a Zambia safari. The lawsuit seeks $15,000 for negligence and cites inadequate safety measures from the tour guides. African Portfolio denies negligence, asserting responsibility lies with the guides of Chiawa Safaris, while the incident raises concerns about wildlife safety in safari tourism.
Craig Manders, a New Jersey resident, is suing the safari tour operator African Portfolio after a tragic incident led to the death of his wife, 70-year-old Lisa Manders, during a guided safari in Zambia. The couple was on their ten-day dream trip when the fatal hippopotamus attack occurred on June 5, 2022, during a bush walk in Lower Zambezi National Park. The lawsuit, filed on February 5, 2023, in Stamford, Connecticut, seeks $15,000 for damages resulting from alleged negligence and recklessness related to the incident.
The tragedy struck when the tour group unexpectedly encountered a resting hippopotamus. Craig’s lawsuit claims the safari guides did not provide proper warnings regarding the animal’s aggressive and territorial behavior. As Lisa approached the river, the hippo attacked her violently despite her attempts to escape, leading to her untimely death.
During the attack, the lawsuit alleges that the guides, including one armed ranger, deserted the tourists, leaving Lisa unprotected. Craig holds African Portfolio responsible for failing to ensure the safety of their customers, emphasizing that the guides should have recognized the dangers of being near a hippopotamus, known for its unpredictability and aggression.
Craig Manders expressed that had he been informed about the risks of proximity to hippopotamuses, they would have avoided such dangerous situations. The lawsuit highlights the emotional trauma Craig has suffered following his wife’s death. Attorney Paul Slager stated that proper safety standards are crucial, especially in safari tours, and these protocols were neglected in this case.
In defense, African Portfolio’s lawyer Rodney Gould argues that the company did not conduct the safari but rather coordinated it, emphasizing its role as a tour operator. He indicated plans to dismiss the lawsuit or push for arbitration based on the contractual agreement between the Manderses and the company.
The tragic death of Lisa Manders during a Zambian safari has led to a lawsuit against the tour operator African Portfolio, alleging negligence and recklessness resulting in her fatal encounter with a hippopotamus. The case underscores the importance of comprehensive safety measures and proper warnings for tourists exploring wildlife habitats. The outcome may also prompt a reconsideration of safety protocols in the safari tour industry to prevent future tragedies.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
