An Arizona woman, Gail Mattson, was tragically killed by an elephant while on what was to be a dream vacation in Africa, reports FOX 10 Phoenix. The 79-year-old, living part-time in Sun City, Arizona, faced a brutal attack by the pachyderm on March 30 during a safari in Zambia's Kafue National Park.
Filled with tourists, the vehicle, due to be her last big trip, was charged by the elephant, according to Mattson's daughter, Rona. "The first Jeep was able to get away, but unsuccessfully evading the animal, the second got stopped by some vegetation and they just couldn't get out of there fast enough," Rona explained in a heart-wrenching recount of the incident provided by FOX 10 Phoenix. Unfortunately, the elephant flipped the Jeep over, resulting in Mattson's death.
The tour operator "Wilderness" called the fatal incident involving the elephant "rare" and further elaborated that the vehicle was blocked, rendering the guide unable to maneuver away from the aggressive elephant. As reported by 12 News, four other individuals suffered minor injuries, while another was hospitalized.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Mattson is remembered fondly by both her communities in Arizona and the Twin Cities. "She was a giving, wonderful, kind, adventurous person," Mattson's son, preferring to remain unidentified, Expressed his deep regard for his mother to 12 News. Mattson's friend, Brenda Biggs, also recalled her vibrant spirit, saying, "She was just full of so much energy and so, so real, and just a wonderful person."
Memorial services for Mattson will be held in Minnesota and Arizona, although dates have not yet been disclosed as the family awaits the return of her remains. In the words written on her daughter Rona's Facebook post, Mattson's life met a bleak end on an adventure she had so fervently embarked upon, reminding her loved ones through the tragic accident to cherish the moments of joy and wanderlust she so passionately pursued. "We love you and will miss you," wrote Rona, sharing her mother's story, as Mattson's legacy is stitched into the fabric of the communities that adored her.
