Australian Vet Killed By Elephant In Malaysia
A 25-year-old Australian woman has died after being savagely attacked by a pygmy elephant while trekking in Malaysia.
The Sydney-based veterinarian, Jenna O'Grady Donley, is believed to have been exploring the Tabin Wildlife Reserve in Sabah State.
Also a lover of large animals, Donley, who was accompanied by a friend and tour guide, is said to have spotted the elephant and began taking pictures.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
The elephant charged at the trio piercing Donley's body with its tusk, killing her instantly, according to The Australian.
Although it is unclear whether flash was used, critics have suggested the elephant may have become frightened by unwanted attention.
Donley's mother says it was a tragic accident and insists her daughter was always respectful of animals.
"Bull elephants are fast, they can move with unpredictability, and they're aggressive and they're protective,'' Liz Donley told ABC radio.
While pygmy elephants are generally smaller than most elephants, they are still among some of the largest animals in the world - prevalent in Africa and Asia.
They typically have smaller ears and larger trunks in comparison to other elephants and are said to be much tamer.
Fatal elephant attacks are said to be rare in Malaysia, despite the animals becoming more fearful and ultimately more dangerous when they are alone.
The death comes almost a year after Stephanie James was crushed to death by an elephant at a zoo in Knoxville, Tenn.
Animal rights groups criticized the zoo for allowing pan handlers direct contact with the elephants, arguing it is irresponsible and unsafe.
Despite the horrific death of her only child, Donley said her daughter died doing what she loved most.
"It has happened and from that we have to move on with a positive note - that from Jenna's work and from the type of person that she was, we know that she had many friends, good family - and someone else now will take on that research and continue it," she told ABC.
