A devastating incident occurred during a safari when a hippo attacked Lisa Manders, resulting in a tragic lawsuit. The horrifying account detailed how the hippo grabbed her in its powerful jaws, lifting her off the ground, violently shaking her body, and inflicting fatal injuries. Lisa Manders, who suffered catastrophic harm, tragically passed away shortly after the attack. Her grief-stricken husband is now taking legal action against the Connecticut-based tour operator, African Portfolio, alleging negligence in failing to adequately warn them of the potential hazards posed by encountering these wild animals, which can weigh up to 3,000 pounds.
In a heartfelt statement issued through his attorneys, Lisa’s widower expressed shock and sorrow at the circumstances that led to his wife’s untimely death. He emphasized that had they been aware of the dangers presented by the hippopotamus, they would never have willingly placed themselves in such perilous proximity while on foot. The widower condemned the tour guides for allowing Lisa to be left alone with no protection from the lethal animal, labeling the situation as nothing short of astonishing.
The lawsuit contends that the tour guides should have been aware of the immediate and extreme peril posed by the wild hippopotamus, given its well-documented tendencies of being highly unpredictable, territorial, and aggressive in certain situations. Craig Manders, grieving the loss of his beloved wife, has taken legal action against African Portfolio, seeking justice for the tragic loss that has not only impacted their family but also the broader community.
Despite the tragic nature of Lisa’s death, African Portfolio’s attorney described the incident as an uncommon and deeply regrettable occurrence. The attorney emphasized that the company organizes tours in collaboration with reputable safari lodges and bears no responsibility for the events that transpire during these trips. Drawing a parallel between lost luggage and the tragic incident, the attorney stated that the tour operator’s role is limited to arranging tours and does not extend to assuming liability for unforeseen events.
The menacing attributes of male hippos, including their tremendous weight exceeding 3,000 pounds, swift speed of 20 mph, and fiercely territorial nature, underscore the dangers inherent in encountering these wild animals. Despite the legal dispute that has ensued, the focus remains on the profound loss of Lisa Manders, remembered as a devoted mother and wife whose premature passing has reverberated through her family and community.
