Virunga Ranger, Patrick Prince Muhayirwa, killed defending the Park

Virunga National Park deeply regrets to announce the death of Ranger Patrick Prince Muhayirwa, aged 26 years old, killed during an attack by Mai-Mai militia this week.

A second Virunga National Park Ranger, Jean Claude Muhindo Mastaki, was seriously injured in the attack. He has been receiving medical attention and is currently in a stable condition.

Virunga National Park has subsequently stabilized the situation and the area has been secured. Tourism and other park services have not been affected.

Park Director, Emmanuel de Merode commented, “Ranger Muhayirwa was a young and highly dedicated ranger and the Park is in deep mourning for his loss. We wish to extend our sincerest condolences to his family. His death is a tragic loss for Virunga National Park, and we are ever grateful for his service to his country.

Our thoughts are also with Ranger Mastaki, his wife and four children, and we wish him a swift and full recovery.”

To date, over 150 rangers have died in service to Virunga National Park. To support those closest to Ranger Patrick Prince Muhayirwa, please donate to the Fallen Rangers Fund at virunga.org/donate.