A 64-year-old U.S. tourist from New Mexico was killed by an elephant near Zambia's Maramba Cultural Bridge, the second fatal attack involving American tourists this year, authorities confirmed.

Juliana Gle Tourneau was thrown from her vehicle and trampled by the elephant after the tour group stopped due to traffic caused by the herd, according to Southern Province Police Commissioner Auxensio Daka. This incident follows a similar attack in March where another U.S. tourist, 79-year-old Gail Mattson, was killed by an elephant in Kafue National Park. Zambian authorities are now urging tourists to exercise extreme caution while observing wildlife.

Juliana Gle Tourneau, a 64-year-old woman from New Mexico, was part of a tour group traveling in Livingstone, a city in southern Zambia known for its proximity to the renowned Victoria Falls. The group encountered a herd of elephants, causing a traffic jam near the Maramba Cultural Bridge. During this pause, an elephant suddenly attacked, resulting in Tourneau being thrown from the vehicle and trampled to death.

Southern Province Police Commissioner Auxensio Daka provided a detailed account, confirming that Tourneau was thrown from her vehicle before being trampled by the elephant. The quick succession of events left little time for onlookers or tour guides to intervene, and emergency services pronounced her dead at the scene.

This incident has raised significant concern, particularly coming only months after a similar tragedy in March. In that earlier case, 79-year-old Gail Mattson from Minnesota died when an elephant charged a truck carrying tourists through Kafue National Park. The force of the charge flipped the vehicle, killing Mattson and injuring five other passengers.

These incidents have led Zambian authorities to stress the importance of vigilance and caution when interacting with wildlife. Elephants, despite their often gentle appearance, can become highly unpredictable and aggressive, especially when they feel threatened or are protecting their young. Authorities are advising tourists to maintain a safe distance and adhere strictly to guidelines provided by tour operators and park officials.

Zambia is known for its rich biodiversity and attracts thousands of tourists annually who come to experience its national parks and wildlife. However, the recent fatalities highlight the potential dangers inherent in such encounters. Wildlife experts suggest that increased visitor awareness and improved safety protocols could help mitigate risks in the future.

Local tour operators and park officials are now reviewing safety measures to prevent further tragedies. This includes potential restrictions on approaching elephant herds and enforceable guidelines for tour guides when navigating areas with high wildlife activity.

The U.S. Embassy in Zambia has been notified and is providing consular assistance to the family of Juliana Gle Tourneau. In a statement, the Embassy expressed condolences and urged American tourists in Zambia to exercise caution and respect wildlife safety guidelines.

Both fatal incidents have been deeply unsettling for the tourism sector in Zambia. While the country heavily relies on tourism revenue, these events have underscored the urgent need to balance tourism with stringent safety measures. Ongoing discussions between Zambian authorities and wildlife experts aim to establish more robust protective measures for tourists and local populations living near wildlife habitats.

In conclusion, the deaths of Juliana Gle Tourneau and Gail Mattson serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of wild animals. Tourists are advised to stay informed, follow safety advice, and always prioritize their safety when viewing wildlife. Authorities have called on tourists to exercise extreme caution while observing wildlife.