Tourist killed in shooting at Kruger National Park
A 69-year-old Canadian tourist has died following a a shooting incident inside the Kruger National Park on Wednesday.
Black News 
According to local authorities, the tragic shooting incident – as the result of an apparent accidental firearm discharge – occurred at a concession-operated picnic site near the Phabeni Gate, a popular entry point located on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park.
Preliminary reports released by South African National Parks (SANParks) state the victim was part of a private tour group that was staying at a lodge outside the reserve.
The group had entered the park that evening specifically to attend a traditional “bush braai” hosted by a private concession company operating under a valid permit.
SanParks confirm shooting incident at Concession Picnic Site in the Kruger National Park
SANParks officials stated that during the gathering, a private field guide affiliated with the concession operator allegedly discharged a firearm by accident, fatally wounding the Canadian guest.
“A guest has been fatally wounded at a concession-operated braai picnic area in the vicinity of Phabeni Gate in the Kruger National Park on the evening of Wednesday, 17 June 2026,” SANParks confirmed in a statement.
“Based on the preliminary information available at this stage, a private guide attached to the concession operator allegedly accidentally discharged a firearm, resulting in the fatal injury of a 69-year-old guest from Canada.
“The guest was part of a group booked outside the park and only came in for a bush braai offered by a private concession with a valid permit to operate the facility within the park:
“SANParks extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time.”
Shooting under investigation
The South African Police Service has been on the scene and is conducting the necessary investigations.
“The matter is now a subject of a police investigation and further information will be communicated once it becomes available and as appropriate,” SANParks added.
Field guides in South African game reserves commonly carry heavy-calibre firearms as a routine safety measure to protect guests from potential encounters with dangerous wildlife during walking safaris and open-air dinners.
The identity of the deceased has been withheld pending notification of family members in Canada.
This incident comes not long after a third suspect was arrested in connection with the brutal murder of a South African couple who were found dead in the Kruger National Park last month.
