A 22-year-old Spanish woman, Blanca Ojanguren García, tragically lost her life after being attacked by an elephant while participating in a bathing activity at the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre in Thailand. The incident occurred on January 3, 2025, during her vacation with her boyfriend.
Background
Blanca was studying law and international relations at the University of Navarra in Spain and was currently on an exchange program at Tamkang University in Taiwan. She had planned to complete her studies in 2025. During her recent holiday, she visited Thailand with her boyfriend, an infantry cadet from Oviedo.
The Incident
While at the elephant sanctuary on Ko Yao Yai island, Blanca was part of a group activity where tourists bathe elephants. Reports indicate that she walked in front of a 50-year-old female elephant when it unexpectedly gored her with its tusk. Despite immediate medical attention, she succumbed to her injuries shortly after arriving at a nearby hospital.
Reactions and Aftermath
The Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre has since been closed indefinitely as authorities investigate the incident. The Spanish foreign minister confirmed that the consulate in Bangkok is in contact with Blanca's family regarding the repatriation of her remains.
Concerns Over Elephant Tourism
This tragic event has raised concerns about the treatment of elephants in tourism settings. Experts suggest that the elephant may have been stressed due to excessive interaction with tourists, which can lead to unpredictable behavior. The incident highlights the risks associated with human-elephant interactions and has sparked discussions about ethical practices in wildlife tourism.
Conclusion
The death of Blanca Ojanguren García serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers involved in close encounters with wild animals, even those that are typically seen as docile. Her university and local community have expressed their condolences, mourning the loss of a promising young student.
