A 75-year-old American millionaire hunter was tragically killed after being ambushed by a herd of elephants while on a hunting trip in Gabon, Central Africa. The incident underscores the dangers of big-game hunting and the importance of wildlife conservation.

Tragic Incident in Gabon

Ernie Dosio, a seasoned big-game hunter and owner of a Californian vineyard, lost his life while hunting in the rainforests of Gabon. Dosio, known for his extensive collection of hunting trophies, was ambushed and trampled to death by a herd of five female elephants protecting their calf.

Details of the Hunt

The incident occurred during a £30,000 hunt for the elusive yellow-backed duiker, a small forest antelope. Dosio had decades of experience hunting dangerous game across Africa and the United States, including elephants, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, lions, and various deer species.

The Ambush

The hunting party unexpectedly encountered the elephant herd in the dense undergrowth of the Lope-Okanda rainforest. The elephants, described as appearing 'as if from nowhere,' immediately charged, overwhelming Dosio and his professional hunter (PH).

The PH was thrown aside and seriously injured, losing his high-powered rifle. Dosio, armed only with a shotgun provided by the hunting company due to local licensing regulations, was brutally trampled.

Dosio’s Background and Conservation Efforts

Friends and colleagues have described Dosio as a dedicated hunter and a committed conservationist, emphasizing that his hunts were always conducted legally and aimed at managing animal populations. He was known for his charitable work and his contributions to wildlife conservation efforts.

Safari Company Statement

The safari company, Collect Africa, confirmed the incident, stating that the client and his PH encountered the elephants while hunting for the yellow-backed duiker.

Aftermath and Repatriation

The US Embassy in Gabon is handling the repatriation of Dosio’s body to his home in Lodi, California. Gabon, often referred to as 'Africa's last Eden,' is a country largely covered by rainforest and home to a significant population of forest elephants – approximately 50,000.

Family and Legacy

Dosio’s family, including his partner Betty and two sons, Jeff and Blake, who are involved in the family’s successful vineyard management business, Pacific AgriLands, are deeply affected by the loss. Pacific AgriLands manages a vast 12,000-acre vineyard and provides equipment to many of the region’s wineries, including the renowned E & J Gallo.

The tragedy has resonated throughout the hunting community and beyond, with many expressing grief and acknowledging Dosio’s passion for hunting and conservation. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with the US Embassy expected to release further information in the coming days.