South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that it is studying the Mpumalanga High Court’s recent ruling concerning a 2019 tragedy in which a 30-month-old toddler was killed by a leopard at the Malelane Technical Services Living Quarters in the Kruger National Park.

In its media statement issued on Friday, 19 September 2025, SANParks said:

“As a state entity, we are committed to comply with findings of our courts. In addition, we are also studying the court’s judgment for a more in-depth understanding of the findings as set out by Acting Judge Zodwa Gumede.”

The court dismissed SANParks’ special plea that the incident should be treated under the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA). The organisation had argued that the death constituted an occupational injury since the child’s father, an employee, was required to reside in the Park and was aware of the risks posed by wild animals.

Acting Judge Gumede disagreed, ruling that COIDA was not applicable. She emphasised that the death of a child in such circumstances could not reasonably have been foreseen, and the family therefore has the right to pursue a damages claim against SANParks.

The parents are seeking compensation for funeral expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

According to the father, the toddler was playing with his mother’s phone when he wandered behind him one evening. A leopard reportedly climbed a tree near the fence, leapt into the yard, and seized the child. Despite the father’s attempts to intervene, the leopard tried to drag the child over the fence before dropping him and fleeing into the bush.

The child was rushed to Shongwe Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

At the time, SANParks rangers conducted a search for the animal, resulting in two leopards being destroyed in the immediate vicinity of the quarters.

SANParks has acknowledged the sensitivity of the case. In its official statement, it said:

“Considering the sensitivity of the issue as well as out of respect for the family, SANParks will not be providing further commentary on the matter.”