Crocodile Kills South African Man After He Ignores Warning Signs at Game Reserve

A 56-year-old man was killed in a horrific crocodile attack at Bonamanzi Game Reserve in South Africa after ignoring multiple warning signs and casting his fishing rod into the crocodile-infested Hluhluwe River.

The father, who was visiting the reserve near Hluhluwe with his family for a long weekend getaway, reportedly walked past clearly marked signs cautioning visitors to stay away from the riverbank. Moments later, a 12-foot Nile crocodile lunged from the water, grabbed him by the torso, and dragged him in.

Witnesses described the terrifying scene as peaceful moments turned to chaos.
“It was absolutely horrific,” an eyewitness told reporters. “He was screaming and fighting, but the crocodile was too strong. Lifelines were thrown, but no one could go in. He disappeared under the water in seconds.”

Emergency services were dispatched to the scene and began a search, but the man’s lifeless body surfaced roughly two hours later near the riverbank. Reports indicate that his wife and children may have witnessed the attack.

The Bonamanzi Game Reserve, a 4,000-hectare park located about 150 miles north of Durban, is home to many Nile crocodiles and is bordered by the Hluhluwe River, a known breeding ground for the dangerous reptiles. The reserve also hosts live crocodile feeding experiences, during which guests are permitted to observe or feed the animals raw meat under controlled conditions.

It remains unclear whether such an activity was scheduled the day of the incident.

In a statement, the reserve expressed condolences: “Our hearts are with the family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We kindly ask that their privacy be respected.”

Nile crocodiles are among Africa’s deadliest predators, with bite forces significantly stronger than a Great White Shark’s and the ability to reach speeds up to 22 mph in short bursts. They are estimated to be responsible for around 1,000 human deaths annually across the continent.

The tragedy has reignited warnings about the dangers of interacting with wildlife in protected areas and the importance of adhering strictly to posted safety advisories.