Mother And Son In Critical Condition After Giraffe Attack In South Africa

A mother and her three-year-old son are fighting for their lives after they were attacked by a female giraffe not far from their home at Blyde Wildlife Estate in Limpopo, South Africa. Dr. Katy Williams and her three-year-old son Finn were waiting for her husband, Dr. Sam Williams, who was out on a hike, when the giraffe charged at them. 

Sam had just returned from his run when he saw the giant animal attacking his wife and son and quickly rushed to their aid. 

“Dr Sam Williams managed to chase the giraffe away. Dr. Katy Williams and Finn were treated on the scene by Hoedspruit Medical Rescue as well as a medical doctor from Hoedspruit‚ Dr. Victor Loftie-Eaton," the family said in a statement. 

Katy and Finn were airlifted to a local hospital where they both underwent emergency surgeries and are in stable but critical condition. 

Authorities believe the giraffe may have been startled by the pair and was being protective of its newborn calf. 

Riaan Cilliers, who is the manager of Blyde Wildlife Estate, said that everybody is “in shock about this very sad incident and we ensure the family that they are in our prayers."