A holidaymaker was tragically killed in a shocking crocodile attack after he disregarded clear warning signs at a game reserve that offers live “feeding experiences.”

The 56 year old father, who was visiting Bonamanzi Game Reserve in South Africa with his wife and children, ignored several large signs cautioning visitors to stay away from the water – and decided to fish in the Hluhluwe River. Moments later, chaos ensued as a 12-foot crocodile emerged from the shallow waters, clamping its jaws around his torso and dragging him into the river.

The horrifying incident took place at the 4000-hectare reserve, approximately 150 miles north of Durban on Saturday, reports the Mirror.

An anonymous eyewitness recounted: “It was absolutely horrific. One moment it was all peaceful and calm and the next moment there was just screaming and chaos. This 12-foot crocodile pulled the man in who was desperately trying to fight it off and it was slamming him down again and again on the water as it reversed back with him in its jaws.

“Other guests ran to help as the man desperately tried to fight off the crocodile but it was too big and too strong and had a firm grip and lifelines were thrown out for him to grab onto. This man was strong and was fighting for his life and screaming and thrashing about but it would have been absolute madness for anyone to go in the water to try and get to him.

“Nothing could be done and he just disappeared under the water and was gone. The rescue services all turned up and were preparing to go andsearch the river for the missing man. But two hours later his body which was not in a good way just popped up off the bank.

“The area was clearly marked with regard to the danger of crocodiles in the river but the man walked past them to fish in the river which was madness and it cost him his life. I am told the wife and children were nearby and may have witnessed it all” he said.

The victim, a 56 year old South African man from Richards Bay, is believed to have booked in for a long weekend stay with his family. According to the reserve website, guests can either watch or join in the live feeding of raw meat to the crocs every other Saturday. It is not known if the activity was available on the day the victim was attacked.

The Bonamanzi Game Reserve is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to many Nile crocodiles – and bordered by the Hluhluwe River which provides them water and breeding ground.

A spokesman for the reserve said: “Our hearts are with the family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. Out of respect for the family and due to the sensitive nature no further details will be shared. We kindly ask that their privacy be respected at this terrible time” it said.

The Nile crocodile is thought to be one of Africa’s most feared, with one of the strongest bites in the animal kingdom – eight times of the force of the Great White Shark. The predator kills 1000 people a year in Africa and can move at a speedy 22mph.