Idukki: A 42-year-old woman was trampled to death by a wild elephant on Saturday afternoon. The deceased has been identified as Seetha, a resident of Thottapura, Peerumedu.

The incident occurred around 2 pm in the Meenmutty forest, where Seetha had gone with her family to collect mace.

On spotting the wild tusker, the family ran in different directions in a desperate attempt to escape. While her husband Binu and their two children managed to flee unharmed, Seetha was attacked by the elephant.

Despite sustaining injuries, Binu, along with the children, carried Seetha out of the forest. Forest department officials from Murinjapuzha rushed to the spot and transported her to the hospital in an official vehicle. However, she was declared brought dead on arrival.

Seetha’s body has been taken to Peermade Taluk Hospital for post-mortem and other legal formalities, after which it will be handed over to the family.

Binu, who also suffered injuries, was initially taken to Peermedu Taluk Hospital. As the facility lacked an X-ray unit and an orthopaedic specialist, he was later shifted to Kanjirappally Taluk Hospital for further treatment."