Community Mourns Loss Of Hope Elephants Founder Dr. James Laurita

HOPE, Maine - The community is mourning the loss of the Hope Elephants founder Dr. James Laurita who died this morning while tending to the elephants in their corral. He died from asphyxiation according to the Maine medical examiner, The examiner found the injuries are consistent while Dr. Laurita was on the ground from a fall that one of the elephants accidentally stepped on him causing internal injuries with multiple fractures and ultimately causing asphyxia.  Dr. Flomenbaum has declared this an accidental death.

The Knox County Sheriff’s Office received a call at 7:12 this morning to respond to 43 Hatchet Mountain Rd. in Hope for an unresponsive male in the barn.  Prior to Deputies arrival, paramedics from Northeast Ambulance arrived.  It was discovered that Dr. James Laurita, 56, of Hope was deceased.  Dr. Laurita was the Founder of Hope Elephants.  For an unknown reason, while routinely tending to the elephants, Dr. Laurita had fallen in the corral and struck his head on the cement floor.

Hope Elephants remarks on Dr. James Laurita death. Hope Elephants is deeply saddened by the loss
of our founder, Dr. Jim Laurita.

Jim’s passion for all animals, but especially elephants, was boundless. It was Jim’s ability share that passion with all around him that not only helped to make our organization a reality, but also enriched and enhanced the lives of all those who had a chance to know Jim. It was through education that Jim passed on his passion and the importance of wildlife conservation.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Laurita family. We ask that you respect their privacy during this difficult time. We are thankful for your support.

Others shared their reactions to this news. University College at Rockland says; "We express our sincere condolences over this tragic loss of a great man with a huge vision". We have lost a neighbor and philanthropist today. Shocking though it is, let's not jump to conclusions regarding the elephant's role in this tragedy. Rest in peace, Dr. Jim says local singer Bill Barnes. Berry Manor Inn says; "We are just heartbroken over the news that Dr. Jim Laurita of Hope Elephants has tragically died this morning. Our hearts go out to his family, the staff of Hope Elephants and Rosie and Opal. He was dedicated to not only giving Rosie and Opal a better life but keeping elephants from going extinct in the wild. May his legacy live on".... Those are just of those sharing their reaction to this news on Dr. James Laurita.

RCN America Network sends our thoughts and prayers to all those close to Dr. James Laurita. He was the driving force in bringing to retired elephants to Maine. It is sad to hear about his loss.

Hope Elephants mission is to provide a unique and caring home for injured and aging elephants, and to provide an educational program that inspires visitors to participate in wildlife conservation. We collaborate with individuals and organizations committed to wildlife conservation, especially those working to protect and preserve elephants.