A 22-year-old Spanish tourist, Blanca Ojanguren Garcia, tragically lost her life after being attacked by an elephant while bathing the animal in Thailand.
The incident occurred at the Koh Yao Elephant Care & House, a sanctuary frequently visited by international tourists, including many from the UK.
The elephant reportedly gored Garcia with its tusk, leading to her death. Experts believe the animal may have acted out of stress from constant interaction with tourists, a factor often linked to unnatural living conditions that can cause behavioral changes. The sanctuary activity of bathing and washing elephants is a popular draw for visitors in Thailand, despite concerns raised by animal welfare advocates.
Garcia was a student pursuing a Law and International Relations degree at the University of Navarra in Pamplona, Spain. She was participating in a university exchange program in Taiwan when the tragedy struck.
The Spanish Foreign Ministry confirmed the fatal incident, stating:
“We can confirm the tragic death in an accident involving a Spanish tourist. The Spanish Consulate in Bangkok is in contact with the victim’s family, providing all necessary consular assistance.”
Koh Yao Yai, the island where the attack took place, is located in the Andaman Sea between Phuket and Krabi. Known for its serene beaches, lush mangroves, and traditional fishing villages, it is a popular destination for tourists seeking a tranquil escape.
Second Elephant-Related Fatality Involving Spanish Tourists
This marks the second recent elephant-related death involving a Spanish national. In July, Carlos Luna, a 43-year-old cleaning firm owner from Ejea de los Caballeros, Zaragoza, was killed in South Africa’s Pilanesberg National Park.
He was trampled by an elephant after stepping out of his vehicle to take photographs during a safari.
According to safari officials, Luna’s fatal mistake was leaving the safety of his car, which prompted the matriarch elephant to feel threatened.
“The first rule of a safari is never to get out of the vehicle,” explained the director of Alex Lacadena, a Spanish safari agency. “Wild animals perceive the vehicle as a single unit but react defensively when humans step outside.”
The tragic deaths have reignited conversations about tourist safety and ethical wildlife tourism practices. Experts continue to stress the importance of respecting wildlife boundaries to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
