The 26 year old anthropology student, Andrew Oberle, is currently in stable condition after undergoing six hours of surgery and being put into an induced coma. The attack occurred at the Jane Goodall Institute Chimpanzee Eden, a South African sanctuary for abused or misplaced chimps. The compound is protected by 2 sets of fencing, a chain link fence on the outside and electrified wiring on the inside.
Oberle was said to be giving a lecture when he entered into an unprotected area, the neutral zone between the two fences that is meant to provide a safe viewing distance. While trying to kick away a rock near the inner wiring, a chimp grabbed his foot and pulled him under the fence trapping him half way. He was attacked by two chimps who then escaped through the opening made by Oberle’s body, dragged him some 30 meters away, then continued to maul him. The facility was immediately locked down and armed security rush to the scene and protected populated buildings.
Eugene Cussons, director at the institute showed up to the scene and fired two rounds from his handgun into the air to scare away the chimps, but was instead became the target of attack. He ran back into his vehicle, where one of the male chimps jumped onto the bonnet of his car and began smashing through the windscreen. Cussons fired through the windshield striking and injuring the attacking chimpanzee, the second chimp immediately became docile.
Oberle was left with vicious lacerations and bite wounds covering his entire body. He suffered, multiple broken bones, lost fingers on both hands, toes on both feet, one testicle and an ear. While chimpanzees are typically smaller than an average human male, 5 feet 6 inches and 150 pounds, they possess more twice the strength and are incredibly quick. Male chimpanzees are very territorial and commonly display violent behavior among other chimpanzees and smaller species.
Friends and family of Andy Oberle have started a fund to aid his recovery. Show your support.