A South African giraffe was reportedly killed after hitting its head on an overpass.
The owner of the #giraffes that were stuck on N1 just confirmed to The Citizen that the one died after hitting his head on bridge. #citi
— Carla Coetzee (@CarlaCoet) July 31, 2014
The giraffe was said to have suffered severe trauma, and there is an ongoing investigation. Those responsible may be facing criminal charges.
A number of motorists witnessed the odd method of transportation and photographed the spectacle just before the incident.
According to ‘The Citizen’ newspaper, the owner of the giraffes claimed that they had been able to crane their necks beneath the bridges in the past, and that they had been, “through lots of other bridges.”
Took this pic on the N1 earlier.Just heard one Giraffe passed away! Apparently due to head trauma! So sad! @Radio702 pic.twitter.com/RNCMdALgl3
— Wingate Road Runners (@wingaterunners) July 31, 2014
Look how low that bridge is and how tall the giraffes are. Who thought this one through? I wish I hadn't seen this. pic.twitter.com/as2jJkIwpv
— Pabi Moloi (@PabiMoloi) July 31, 2014
Sources
Wingate Road Runners
pabimoloi
Mashable
Carla Coetzee
Mirror