The incident occurred while Watkins was tracking the 1.3-ton animal with a professional hunter and tracker, according to a statement from Coenraad Vermaak Safaris (CV Safaris), the company that organized the trip.
The company said the attack was "sudden and unprovoked" and that the buffalo, which had not been wounded, charged at Watkins at a speed of around 35 mph (56 km/h).
Despite the experience of the team accompanying him, Watkins was fatally injured during the charge.
CV Safaris expressed deep condolences. "This is a devastating incident, and our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time." The company added that it was supporting both the family members present in South Africa and those back home in the United States.
Family Left Grieving After Tragic Accident
Watkins' brother Amon, mother Gwen, and stepfather Tony were reportedly waiting for him at the safari lodge when the fatal incident occurred. The safari company is also in contact with his teenage daughter and ex-wife, Courtney.
Courtney later confirmed the news of Watkins' death on social media, stating he had died in a "tragic accident involving a Cape buffalo while on a hunting trip in South Africa."
She described the loss as "a reality that's still hard to put into words," adding that their hearts were heavy as they faced the difficult days ahead.
Dangerous Game and a Life Outdoors
The CV Safaris website warns clients of the high risk associated with hunting Cape buffalo, which it describes as one of the most dangerous species on Earth. These animals are known for being aggressive and unpredictable, and are reportedly responsible for numerous hunter deaths and injuries each year.
Watkins, a native of Texas and a graduate of Baylor University, was a managing partner at Watkins Ranch Group, affiliated with Briggs Freeman and LIV Sotheby's International Realty.
According to his professional biography, he spent most of his life outdoors and on ranches and was known as a proud and devoted father.
His social media pages featured numerous hunting photos, including images of deer and mountain lions.
Watkins' sudden death serves as a grim reminder of the risks involved in big game hunting and the powerful unpredictability of wildlife, especially in the wild plains of southern Africa.
