SANParks has announced the death of a Canadian tourist in the Kruger National Park on Wednesday, 17 June.

The 69-year-old was fatally wounded at a concession-operated braai picnic area in the vicinity of Phabeni Gate last night.

SANParks says, based on the preliminary information available at this stage, a private guide attached to the concession operator “allegedly accidentally” discharged a firearm, resulting in the fatal injury of the tourist.

SANParks head of Communications JP Louw says the guest was part of a group booked outside the park and only came in for a bush braai offered by a private concession with a valid permit to operate the facility within the park.

In a statement, Limpopo police said it is alleged that the tourist approached the concession operator, who was holding a rifle, and asked if it was a real firearm.

While the operator was demonstrating that it was a real rifle, the firearm reportedly discharged.

The bullet struck the tourist in the upper body, and he died on the scene.

The Police have opened cases of Culpable Homicide and Reckless Handling of a Firearm for further investigation.

SANParks has extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of the man.