Elephant kills TV expedition guide

30 October 2009

The expedition guide for a BBC children's programme tracing the footsteps of explorer David Livingstone in Africa was killed when he was charged by an elephant in Tanzania, the Corporation said.

Anton Turner, 38, was assisting with the filming of an episode of the CBBC series Serious Explorers, a spokeswoman said.

"We understand at this stage that he was charged by an elephant and was mortally injured," she added.

A doctor was travelling with the expedition and treated Mr Turner, a British citizen, at the scene, but it was understood he died shortly after the incident, the spokeswoman said.

She continued: "Three children were with the filming party at the time of the accident and are all safe. Their safety remains a priority, and all the children have been airlifted from the area. We are also consulting their parents and production of the programme has ceased.

"Four other children who were also in Tanzania in connection with the programme will also return home.

"Anton's relatives have been informed and the BBC is arranging for them to fly to Africa as soon as possible. We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Anton's family and friends.

"Anton was an extremely experienced expedition safari and wildlife ranger and former Army officer who had worked with the BBC in the past.

"As is usual with a serious accident an immediate and thorough BBC investigation into the circumstances of this incident has already begun."

A Foreign Office spokeswoman said: "We can confirm the death of a British national in Tanzania... Next of kin are aware, and we are providing consular assistance."

http://uk.news.yahoo.com/21/20091030/tuk-elephant-kills-tv-expedition-guide-6323e80.html