Horrifying moment elephant tramples man to death (Photos)

A man has been killed after an elephant went on a rampage at a temple in Indian onlookers could only watch in shock. The crowd tried to surround the large animal as it started to lose control in the town of Kerala.

Graphic footage captured the animal’s deadly rampage in Kerala, the southern part of India.  At the start of the video the group of men that surrounded the elephant, in what appears to be a temple of some sort, can be heard shouting towards it.

Then the animal staggers closer to the crowd as the onlookers scream and flee the dangerous giant’s clutches.

Yet tragically one man is left too close to the aggressive creature which can be seen stalking towards its prey.

The clip then jumps to the elephant capturing the victim with his tusk and tossing the man around.

Suddenly the creature stomps forward and crushes the man’s body under his giant feet.

Yells of anguish can be heard from the others at the scene as they watch the wild animal attack their friend.

It is not known why the elephant chose to attack the man, but in general, elephants in captivity are subjected to stress and isolation which affects their mental and physical health.

At least 12 people, including the priest, were injured.

A police spokesman said:

“The elephant was soon caught back and controlled by the mahouts.

“The injured were admitted to the hospital. The priest who fell down, has severe rib injuries.

He has been admitted to the Kottayam Medical College.

After the elephant was controlled, the ritual was completed as was required.”

The worshippers had been at Kerala’s famous Sabarimala temple and as of as a part of the ritual, the priest and elephant were heading towards Padma river to take part in the ‘Arattu’ ceremony.