Well known South African trophy hunter and father of five, Theunis Botha, was killed on Friday afternoon when a fatally wounded elephant fell on him, crushing him to death.
The news was confirmed by Africa Big Hunt booking agent yesterday. They said it was “with great sadness we confirm that fellow professional hunter, outfitter and friend Theunis Botha passed away late yesterday afternoon during a hunting accident in Zimbabwe.
“All our condolences and sympathy goes to Carike and kids in this time of great loss and sadness…!”
According to Zimparks spokesperson Simukai Nyasha, the 51-year-old big game hunter was with clients when they inadvertently wandered into the middle of a breeding herd of elephants on Good Luck Farm, near Hwange National Park.
Initial reports say that three elephant cows charged the hunters. Botha fired a shot, but was caught unawares by a fourth cow that charged him from the side, and lifted him with her trunk. A hunter then apparently delivered a fatal shot to the elephant… which then fell on Botha.
On his website, it says: “Theunis Botha perfected Leopard and Lion hunting safaris with hounds in Africa. He pioneered traditional European Style Driven Monteria hunts in South Africa.” ‘Monteria hunts’ refer to when packs of dogs are used to drive the wildlife towards the hunters who then open fire on their targets.
His site says he was a “passionate and professional hunting outfitter operation focussed on giving his clients a unique exiting African safari experience.”
Friends, colleagues and former clients have posted tributes to Botha. One said: “Cheers Theunis… to a life lived well! We will miss you like crazy!!!” Another, from the Eastern Cape, said: “A legend has fallen but will never be forgotten… It’s with a sad heart that we say goodbye to you Oom Theunis Botha. Our deepest condolences to the family. May God be with you all in this difficult time… R.I.P.”
Botha was reportedly a good friend of fellow hunter, 44-year-old Scott van Zyl, who was killed by crocodiles during a hunting trip in Zimbabwe last month.