Valparai: A wild elephant attack in the early hours of Monday claimed the lives of a woman and her granddaughter at a plantation settlement in Valparai,  Coimbatore. The incident occurred around 3.30 am at the Waterfall Estate quarters.

The deceased have been identified as Asla (55) and her three-year-old granddaughter Hemashree. According to local sources, the elephant broke the window of their house while the family was asleep. In an attempt to escape, Asla picked up the child and opened the door, but the elephant charged at them.

The animal pushed Asla to the ground and trampled Hemashree, killing her instantly. Asla, who sustained severe injuries, was rushed to Valparai Government Hospital but later succumbed to her injuries.

The bodies have been kept at the hospital mortuary. Forest officials and police have launched efforts to drive the elephant back into the forest and have stepped up vigilance in the area.