Millionaire gored to death by 'crafty and belligerent' African buffalo he was hunting

A millionaire rancher was gored to death by a buffalo while hunting on a big game safari in South Africa.

Ranch trader Asher Watkins was killed when the 1.3-ton Cape buffalo he was tracking charged from the brush and struck him, killing the 52-year-old hunter almost instantly, reported LBC.

“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts we confirm the tragic death of our client and friend Asher Watkins from the USA," said Hans Vermaak, on behalf of CV Safaris, which organized the expedition. “On Sunday, while on a hunting safari with us in South Africa's Limpopo Province, Asher was fatally injured in a sudden and unprovoked attack by an unwounded buffalo. He was tracking it together with one of our professional hunters and one of our trackers. This is a devastating incident, and our hearts go out to his loved ones."

The company warns on its website that "no species on the planet has a more fearsome reputation than a Cape buffalo," which locals refer to as the "Black Death" due to their reputation for causing around 200 deaths a year and killing more game hunters than lions, rhinos or crocodiles.

“The buffalo is regarded as the most dangerous animal to pursue in Africa," CV Safaris says on its website. "Buffalo hunting is thrilling and exhilarating and at the top of every hunter's wish list. Crafty and belligerent, he seeks refuge in thickets when wounded or when danger approaches. Buffalo are known to charge unprovoked so prepare for the worst."

“Buffalo have earned their reputation and can absorb astounding amounts of lead even when shots are well placed and a charging buffalo comes at an alarming speed," the website adds. "Cool nerves and a steady hand are crucial.”

The buffaloes can weigh up to 1.5 tons and stand about 5 and a half feet tall, with horns that are joined by a solid lump of bone across the forehead, and the massive animals are unpredictable and aggressive, and their only predators are humans and lions.

“On an African safari with his beloved mother, brother and stepdad, Asher came face to face with one of Africa's legendary buffalo," said friend Shannon Wherry on social media. “In a moment of fearlessness as he lived his life, he met the challenge head-on, leaving this world a man of courage, faith and adventure."

Watkins is survived by a daughter and ex-wife.