This heart-wrenching footage shows a mother attempting to bring her calf to its feet after it was struck by a speeding motorist.

Sixty-six year old Heidi Haas was on safari in Hwange National Park when she witnessed the distressing encounter.

Haas relayed the series of events to Latest Sightings: “With tearful eyes, I had to watch how the entire elephant family tried to help this little one without actually being able to do a thing. There was literally no more that could be done as the elephant had broken its leg and its back.

The rangers were called in urgently to come and assist and they had to try and keep the other elephants at bay as they were in great danger of being trampled and the elephant family didn’t want them being anywhere near the herd. There was little other they could do than put this young elephant out of its misery.

It was emotionally draining to watch and I never want to have to experience such a moment again. My last words to everyone who visits these magnificent Parks all over the world, please take care and don’t over speed as the loss of such a beautiful life as in this case is absolutely unnecessary!”