Dad Fights Crocodile To Save His Son’s Life

A Zimbabwe man fought a crocodile with his bare hands to save his son’s life. Although the boy was seriously injured in the attack, he is alive and in stable condition.

Tafadzwa Kachere and his 11-year-old son Tapiwa were crossing the Nyaitengwa River when the crocodile attacked. Kachere said he and his son were returning home from working in the family’s garden. As they crossed the river, Tapiwa was walking behind his father.

Kachere said his son suddenly began shouting for help. When he turned around, he saw the boy struggling with a large crocodile. As reported by The Zimbabwe Mail, the crocodile latched onto Tapiwa’s left leg and refused to let go.

Fearing for his son’s life, Kachere dove into the water and fought with the crocodile:

“I took the risk… trying to force open the jaws with my hands. I failed to open the crocodile’s mouth and resorted to poking its mouth with reeds while seated on its back.”

Although the crocodile eventually left go of Tapiwa’s leg, it then latched onto Kachere’s hand.

“I struggled with it until we both got out of the water and I was still on top of it. I poked its eyes several times until it released my injured hand.”

Kachere and his son were both transported to Nyadire Hospital for emergency treatment. They were later transferred to Chitungwiza Central Hospital for continued care. Dr. Obadiah Moyo said he and his staff are monitoring the father and son closely.

The Washington Post reports Tapiwa’s leg was severely injured in the attack. Doctors were unable to repair the damage, and were forced to amputate. Kachere said his son “still thinks he will get his leg back.”

The family is currently attempting to raise the money for an artificial limb, as they cannot afford the expense.

Kachere suffered serious damage to his hand as he fought the crocodile. However, doctors are optimistic that it will eventually heal.

[Image via Flickr]