Spanish Tourist Tragically Killed by Elephant at Thai Sanctuary: What Travelers Need to Know

A tragic incident occurred on January 3, 2025, at Koh Yao Elephant Care on Yao Yai Island, Thailand, where 22-year-old Spanish tourist Blanca Ojanguren García was fatally injured by an elephant during a bathing activity. While initial reports suggested she was gored, it was later clarified that the elephant struck her with its trunk, leading to fatal injuries.

García, a law and international relations student at the University of Navarra, was on vacation in Thailand after completing an exchange program in Taiwan. She was accompanied by her boyfriend and other tourists during the incident; no other injuries were reported. Following the tragedy, Koh Yao Elephant Care has temporarily closed its operations.

This incident underscores the potential dangers associated with close interactions between humans and captive elephants in tourism settings. Experts suggest that such activities can cause stress to the animals, potentially leading to unpredictable behavior.

In light of this tragedy, it's crucial for tourists to exercise caution and seek out ethical wildlife experiences that prioritize the well-being of animals and the safety of visitors.