Kruger trail ranger survives horrifying crocodile attack
Updated | By Etienne Bruwer
Mark Montgomery shared his story of how he survived a horrifying crocodile attack in the Kruger National Park.
While out on a group hike in Kruger National Park, trail ranger Mark Montgomery saw his life flash before his eyes.
Montgomery stopped to get some fresh water from the river, which according to him, was standard procedure.
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As he was getting fresh water from the Metsi Metsi River, the trail ranger saw a crocodile's head just below the water's surface.
I can’t remember how it happened or how quickly. Next thing I knew, I was in the water.- Mark Montgomery
Montgomery told Martin Bester that when a crocodile pulls its prey into the water, they do a thing called a “death roll” in an attempt to drown its prey.
“I immediately knew I was in trouble, and I knew I had to do something,” he said.
“I kept trying to push myself up. I put my hands around its neck to try and stop it. I basically counter-rolled it and spun the other way.”
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Montgomery tried everything to get out, but the croc was holding onto his hand. During the incident, the 3.5-meter monster let go of his hand for a split second, giving the trail ranger a chance to escape.
Trail guide wins underwater fight with crocodile in Kruger Park https://t.co/qlEn6UQZLT #ArriveAlive @TheEWT pic.twitter.com/VMeJHuf7lO
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) May 13, 2023
“As I was making my way out of the water, I kept fearing that it was going to come after me, but luckily it went the other way."
According to Montgomery, the crocodile dragged him about 10 meters into the water to the other side before he got away.
To help during Montgomery’s recovery, Martin Bester gave the trail ranger R5,000 from the Good Morning Angels fund.
You can also help here: https://bit.ly/41DtNS7
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Tune in to the 'Breakfast with Martin Bester', weekdays from 06:00 - 09:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.
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