Texas Ranch Tycoon Killed in Tragic Buffalo Attack During South African Hunt

What was meant to be another adventurous expedition for Texas ranch real estate mogul Asher Watkins ended in tragedy this past Sunday, when the 52-year-old was fatally gored by a massive Cape buffalo during a hunting trip in South Africa’s Limpopo province.

Local safari operators confirmed that Watkins, a well-known figure in both the luxury ranching and hunting worlds, was tracking a 1.3-ton Cape buffalo when the powerful animal suddenly charged. The fatal encounter happened so swiftly that there was no chance for anyone to intervene.

According to Coenraad and Vermaak Safari, the company that organized the hunt, Watkins had been accompanied by a professional hunter and a tracker when the attack occurred.

“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of our client and friend, Asher Watkins from the USA,” the company said in a statement to Metro. “This heartbreaking event has deeply affected everyone involved, and our thoughts are with his family.”

The buffalo itself was unharmed in the incident.

Family Waiting Nearby

While Watkins was out in the bush, his mother, stepfather, and brother Amon were reportedly waiting for him at a safari lodge not far from the scene. The devastating news reached them within hours, leaving the family in shock.

A Prominent Figure in Ranch Real Estate

Watkins was the founder and CEO of Watkins Ranch Group, a brokerage firm specializing in the sale of high-end ranch properties across Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. His professional reputation was built on decades of experience, and his company’s website highlighted his unmatched expertise in the market for large-scale rural estates.

Born and raised in Dallas, Watkins grew up working on his family’s cattle and hunting ranch — a formative experience that shaped his deep love for the outdoors. Friends and colleagues say that his passion for nature, wildlife, and adventure was as much a part of his identity as his business success.

A Life Dedicated to the Outdoors

An avid outdoorsman and longtime member of the Dallas Safari Club, Watkins frequently traveled the world for hunting expeditions, sharing his journeys on social media under Asher Watkins Outdoors. His posts often featured images of exotic landscapes, wildlife, and the thrill of the hunt.

Loss Felt by Loved Ones

Watkins leaves behind his ex-wife, Courtney, and their teenage daughter, Savannah. Courtney posted — and later deleted — an emotional tribute alongside a photo of Savannah:

“This photo is from another chapter in our lives; one that will always be part of our daughter’s story. We’ve been in shock and heartbreak, trying to come to terms with not only the loss but the complicated emotions that come with it.”

The sudden and violent nature of Watkins’ death has sent ripples of grief through both the U.S. ranching community and the international hunting world — a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise when pursuing one of Africa’s most formidable and unpredictable animals.