American Trophy Hunter “Asher Watkins“ Gored to Death by Cape Buffalo in Limpopo
LIMPOPO, South Africa — A 52-year-old millionaire trophy hunter from Texas, USA, was fatally gored by a Cape buffalo during a guided hunting expedition in South Africa’s Limpopo province on Sunday, August 3, 2025.
Asher Watkins, a prominent real estate investor and well-known figure in the American big-game hunting community, was participating in a professionally organized hunt at the Bambisana concession, near the Mozambique border. The trip was arranged by Coenraad Vermaak Safaris (CV Safaris), a well-established outfitter specializing in dangerous game hunts.
According to an official statement released by the safari company, Watkins was tracking a 1.3-tonne Cape buffalo bull, one of Africa’s most feared big game animals, when the animal suddenly turned and charged. Often referred to as the “Black Death” due to its size, strength, and unpredictable temperament, the Cape buffalo reportedly struck Watkins at an estimated speed of 56 km/h (35 mph).
“He was accompanied by a highly experienced professional hunter at the time of the incident,” the company said. “The buffalo appeared increasingly agitated before it launched a sudden and fatal charge.”
Despite swift emergency efforts by staff and medics on-site, Watkins was declared dead at the scene. He suffered critical injuries from the buffalo’s horns, which inflicted severe trauma before any intervention could be made.
Watkins, who founded and managed Watkins Ranch Group, built a career in luxury ranch real estate and was an avid hunter who regularly traveled internationally to pursue trophy game. He leaves behind a teenage daughter and his ex-wife, both of whom were reportedly present at the safari lodge at the time of the incident, along with other close family members.
The fatal encounter has reignited international debate surrounding the ethics and risks of trophy hunting, particularly involving dangerous species such as Cape buffalo, which are responsible for hundreds of human deaths across Africa each year.
Conservation groups and animal rights activists expressed condolences while also calling for tighter regulations and a reassessment of the practice.
“This is a tragic loss of life,” said one conservation spokesperson, “but it also highlights the very real dangers involved in the commercial hunting of unpredictable and highly aggressive wildlife.”
Coenraad Vermaak Safaris extended their condolences to Watkins’ family and emphasized that all safety protocols had been in place. The company has pledged to cooperate fully with authorities, although no foul play is suspected.
South African police and the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism are expected to review the incident as part of a standard post-incident procedure.
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