Asher Watkins, a 52-year-old Texas millionaire and well-known trophy hunter, was killed during a hunting safari in South Africa’s Limpopo Province after being fatally charged by a 1.3-ton Cape buffalo, an animal often referred to as the “Black Death” for its aggressiveness[1][5][7].
The incident occurred on Sunday while Watkins was tracking the buffalo with a professional hunter and a tracker. Coenraad Vermaak Safaris (CV Safaris), the organizing outfitter, confirmed the death, describing the attack as “sudden and unprovoked” and stating that the animal was not wounded at the time[1][5]. CV Safaris expressed its condolences and is providing support to Watkins’ family, including his ex-wife and teenage daughter Savannah, as well as other immediate family members who were present at the safari lodge[1][3].
Watkins, an alumnus of Baylor University, made his fortune with the Watkins Ranch Group, a Dallas-based real estate business specializing in luxury ranches across several states[2][6]. He was recognized for his extensive experience in hunting, wildlife management, and land sales, and was active in organizations such as Ducks Unlimited and the Dallas Safari Club[4]. Watkins frequently showcased his hunting expeditions and trophies—including deer, ducks, mountain lions, and snow geese—on social media, garnering both attention and controversy[1][3][5].
Close friends and family, including Watkins’ ex-wife Courtney and daughter Savannah, are reportedly devastated by the loss, describing it as a reality that is “still hard to put into words.” Watkins shared a close relationship with his daughter, and his death has left her and the wider family in shock and heartbreak[1][3][6].
References
- [1] Charging buffalo kills millionaire trophy hunter during South African safari
- [2] Asher Watkins – Dallas, TX
- [3] Businessman gored to death by buffalo during South African trip
- [4] Asher Watkins – Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty
- [5] Millionaire trophy hunter killed by ‘Black Death’ buffalo he was hunting on African safari
- [6] Dallas millionaire gored to death by buffalo in South Africa
- [7] Millionaire big game hunter gored to death by buffalo he was stalking