Stamford, Conn. – A New Jersey man has filed a lawsuit against a Connecticut-based tour company after his wife was fatally mauled by a charging hippopotamus during an African safari in Zambia last year.
Craig Manders, 72, of Cranford, N.J., is suing African Portfolio, Inc., of Old Greenwich, Connecticut, claiming the company failed to protect him and his 70-year-old wife, Lisa Manders, who died during a bush walk tour on June 5, 2024.
Details of the Attack
According to the lawsuit, the Manders were on a guided early morning safari walk when their guides led them to a riverbank to observe a partially submerged hippopotamus.
The suit states that the guides encouraged them to take photos of the hippo. However, without warning, the animal lifted its head and charged from the water toward Lisa Manders.
Lisa tried to run, but the hippo attacked violently, grabbing her in its powerful jaws, lifting her off the ground, and crushing her head and body.
Craig Manders witnessed the horrific attack, which the lawsuit claims has caused him severe emotional and psychological trauma, leaving him unable to cope with daily life and requiring ongoing treatment.
Negligence Allegations Against the Tour Company
The lawsuit, filed on January 2, 2025, in Stamford Superior Court, alleges that African Portfolio and its employees:
- Failed to ensure the couple’s safety during the safari.
- Did not adequately warn them of the dangers of standing near a highly territorial and aggressive animal.
- Negligently encouraged them to observe the hippo from an unsafe location.
- Failed to provide adequate training to guides on preventing wildlife attacks.
The suit argues that African Portfolio should have known that hippos are among the most dangerous animals in Africa and that approaching one posed an extreme risk.
The lawsuit seeks damages exceeding $15,000, claiming the company’s actions were negligent, reckless, and in willful disregard for the well-being of Lisa Manders.
Company’s Response & Legal Proceedings
As of Thursday, representatives of African Portfolio, Inc. had not responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit.
Meanwhile, the case continues to move through the Connecticut court system, with Craig Manders seeking justice for the loss of his wife and the trauma he suffered witnessing her death.
Who Was Lisa Manders?
Lisa Manders grew up in Plainview, Long Island, and was an alumna of the State University of New York (SUNY) at Oneonta. According to her obituary, she was a beloved wife, friend, and nature enthusiast who had traveled extensively before her tragic death.
This tragic case highlights the inherent dangers of wildlife tourism and raises serious questions about the responsibility of tour companies in ensuring guest safety. While African safaris offer unique experiences, proper precautions and risk assessments are essential to prevent catastrophic incidents like this one.
With the lawsuit now filed, the legal battle will determine whether African Portfolio is held accountable for the circumstances leading to Lisa Manders’ tragic death.