A jaguar attack in the Touro Morto region of Mato Grosso do Sul has left the community in shock after the tragic death of 60-year-old Jorge Avalo, known affectionately as Jorginho. The incident occurred on the morning of April 21, 2025, when Avalo was reportedly attacked while he was near the banks of the Miranda River in Aquidauana, a known habitat for jaguars.
According to reports from the Polícia Militar Ambiental (PMA), the search for Avalo began after a local fishing guide noticed his absence and discovered traces of blood and large animal footprints at the ranch where Avalo worked. The PMA confirmed the attack on Tuesday, April 22, when they found Avalo's remains approximately 280 meters from the ranch, hidden in a dense area of forest.
The gruesome details of the attack have emerged through various videos shared on social media. In one clip, a man recalls how he and others had gone to buy honey with Avalo when they witnessed the jaguar attack. Another video shows the jaguar dragging Avalo's body for over 50 meters before it was found by the search team. The situation escalated when the jaguar, realizing it was being pursued, charged at the searchers, injuring one person’s arm.
Witnesses noted that Avalo had previously expressed concern about the presence of jaguars in the area. Just a week before the attack, he was filmed joking about jaguar tracks near his home, dismissing the threat with a light-hearted comment: "No, it won't eat me!" However, the reality turned tragic when the animal, likely driven by hunger or defensive instincts, attacked.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack, considering factors such as food scarcity in the region, the jaguar's reproductive behavior, and any potential actions by Avalo that may have triggered the incident. The PMA has also noted that the security cameras on the property were not functional at the time of the attack, although they had recorded the jaguar in previous nights.
Community members have expressed their grief over Avalo's death, remembering him as a dedicated caretaker and friend. "It is with great sadness that we inform you that our friend Jorge suffered a jaguar attack near the Aquidauana River," a friend posted on social media, highlighting the community's shock and sorrow.
The jaguar's behavior has raised concerns among local authorities. Following the incident, the PMA has been monitoring the situation closely, especially given the animal's aggressive response during the search. The jaguar retreated after shots were fired, but its presence in the area poses ongoing risks to residents.
As investigations continue, the community is left to grapple with the harsh realities of living in proximity to wildlife. The Touro Morto region, known for its rich biodiversity, also presents dangers that residents must navigate. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between human life and the natural world.
In the aftermath of Avalo's death, discussions about wildlife management and safety protocols in rural areas are becoming increasingly urgent. Local officials are expected to convene meetings to address these concerns, aiming to prevent future tragedies while respecting the ecological importance of the region.
The PMA's investigation remains ongoing, and the jaguar involved has not yet been captured. Authorities are considering various strategies to manage the situation, including potential relocation of the animal if it continues to pose a threat to human safety.
As the community mourns the loss of Jorge Avalo, the broader implications of this incident highlight the complexities of human-wildlife interactions in regions where development and nature intersect. The hope is that lessons learned from this tragedy will lead to better protective measures for both people and wildlife in the future.
