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TRAGIC DEATH OF DR JEAN-PATRICK SURAUD

 In memory of Dr Jean-Patrick Suraud, conservation manager of Odzala

It is with enormous regret that we announce the death of Dr Jean-Patrick Suraud, Conservation Manager for Odzala, and Austin Lindsey, a commercial pilot, after their light aircraft crashed in South Africa’s Northern Cape region on Friday 24 August.

Jean-Patrick and Austin were en route from South Africa to Congo-Brazzaville in order to deliver the new aircraft to Odzala when the accident occurred. Local farmers who saw the crash rushed to the scene but were unable to save the two men. South Africa’s Department of Civil Aviation is investigating the accident, the cause of which is currently unknown. Both men were licensed to fly the ultra-light aircraft whilst Austin Lindsey was an experienced commercial pilot. The aircraft was newly purchased by African Parks and had undergone extensive testing prior to the flight.

At this time of sadness, we send our deep condolences to Jean-Patrick’s wife Hélène, young daughter Roxanne and other family members, as well as to the family and loved ones of Austin Lindsey. We would also like to express our gratitude for the overwhelming support shown by the local farming community and by Wilderness Safaris in the midst of this tragedy.

Jean-Patrick was an immensely committed conservationist who dedicated his life to understanding and protecting endangered wildlife species, particularly in Africa. Prior to joining African Parks at the beginning of 2012, he was acclaimed for his work on the conservation of the West African giraffe. He was a member of IUCN’s International Giraffe Working Group and achieved his Doctoral degree on the West African Giraffe. A French national, he also held Masters degrees in Biology and Natural Resources Management. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Date: 28 Aug 2012