A retired teacher from Bradford has died after being trampled by elephants during a walking safari in Zambia, an inquest has heard. Janet Taylor Easton, 67, was on holiday in South Luangwa National Park on 3 July last year with her cousin Alison Taylor, also 67, from New Zealand, when the incident occurred.
The inquest, held by Assistant Coroner Caroline Chandler, recorded a conclusion of misadventure. The court heard that the group was on a guided walk when a female elephant with a younger elephant charged from behind. Despite a warning shot from the scout, the elephant did not stop and reached the group within seconds, causing fatal injuries to Ms Easton.
Ms Easton, also known as Janice, taught chemistry at Titus Salt School in Baildon, Bradford, from September 1983 until her retirement in August 2022. Headteacher Phil Temple described her as a highly skilled teacher who had a profound impact on generations of pupils. After retiring, she had travelled to New Zealand, Canada, and Brazil.
The safari was organised by travel company Expert Africa. Local police chief Robertson Mweemba confirmed that both women died at the scene. The coroner expressed condolences to the family, noting that Ms Easton had not anticipated such a tragic end to what was meant to be a lovely excursion.
