THE owner of one of South Africa’s top game reserves was horrifically trampled to death as he tried to move elephants away from tourist lodges.

Chief Executive Officer FC Conradie who co-owns the exclusive Gondwana Private Game Reserve, was suddenly charged at by the elephant.

The 39-year-old millionaire was reportedly mauled by a six-ton African elephant.

It is said to have attacked him with its tusks then stamped on him repeatedly.

The horror left shocked rangers unable to save him in yesterday’s 8am attack.

FC Conradie was said by staff to have a “love for elephants and nature” and would often go out to photograph them.

His wife of 10 years La-ida, 33, is said to be “inconsolable” at his passing.

A senior source at Gondwana remarked: “FC was a wonderful person to work for, and he cherished his elephants, which were his favorites. He believed he had a special bond with them, but it’s important to remember that although they live in a reserve, they are still wild animals.”

“He will be greatly missed by all here.”

An investigation has been launched into his death.

A spokesman from Gondwana Private Game Reserve stated: “It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of FC Conradie, our CEO, in a tragic incident earlier today.”

“It involved an elephant bull and this heart-breaking event has shaken us all.

“Our utmost support goes out to his wife and family, who have endured an unimaginable loss. We request that their privacy be honored as they navigate through this tragedy.”

“The leadership team are focused on providing every possible support to them and our staff many of whom have lost both a leader and a friend and a mentor here at Gondwana.

“We are working closely with the relevant authorities to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident and at this time we are unable to provide further comment.

“We thank everyone for their messages of compassion and support.”

A tribute posted on Facebook reads: “FC matriculated at HS Lutzville, before studying zoology at the UP.

“Later he acquired an MBA from Stellenbosch. He was a successful businessman and an ardent and important supporter of the Kalahar-Vasbyt.

“He is known for financing our tree project, but he also made it possible for numerous who could not afford the Vasbyt.

“Our hearts go out to La-Ida and their boys.

“Also to his parents who have regularly supported the Vasbyt since 2003. FC was a man like no other.“

It is the second grisly death of a staff member at the 27,000-acre game park.

Last March, married father-of-one David Kandela, 36, was guiding a herd through the Eco Tent Lodge when a one suddenly attacked.

It impaled David on its tusks and dragged him into the bushes where other elephants joined in.

It is not known if guests to the Big 5 park witnessed the owner’s horrific killing.

Both the elephants that killed FC and David are understood to be part of the same herd.

South African Police spokesman Warrant Officer Kappie Kapp said: “It was reported at 8am on Tuesday that an employee at Gondwana Game reserve was attacked by an elephant.

“He had been trampled and mauled by the elephant and the emergency services declared the man dead at the scene and rangers moved the elephant away to another area.

“An inquest has been opened and a full investigation is underway.”

As the world’s largest land mammal, the African bull elephant can weigh 6 tons.

They can stand 13ft to the shoulder and run up to 25mph.

These elephants reportedly kill 500 people a year on the continent.