NEW YORK (AP) — Three kayakers exploring a river deep in the heart of Africa were paddling together in a defensive formation designed to ward off crocodile attacks when one of the massive beasts came from behind, ripping their leader from his boat and hauling him beneath the water.
The two Americans who survived — Ben Stooksberry and Chris Korbulic — said Tuesday on NBC’s “Today” show that the formation was designed to make them appear too large to attack, and had served them well in waters considered more dangerous.
Stooksberry said the first he knew of the attack was hearing Hendri Coetzee of South Africa say, “Oh, my God.” Then the experienced guide was gone. His body has not been found.
The kayakers were on the Lukuga River in Congo for a monthlong expedition documenting unexplored whitewater.
