British soldier is 'killed by an elephant' while carrying out anti-poaching work in Malawi By MailOnline Reporter Published: 13:31 BST, 7 May 2019 | Updated: 13:32 BST, 7 May 2019 Viewcomments A British soldier has been killed by an elephant while carrying out anti-poaching work in Malawi. Guardsman Mathew Talbot, of The 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, died on Sunday, Britain's Ministry of Defence confirmed. Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt said: 'I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Guardsman Mathew Talbot, who died while carrying out vital counter-poaching work in Malawi. 'This tragic incident is a reminder of the danger our military faces as they protect some of the world's most endangered species from those who seek to profit from the criminal slaughter of wildlife. 'Throughout his career with the Coldstream Guards, Guardsman Talbot served with great courage and professionalism, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones at this terrible time.' Guardsman Mathew Talbot (pictured) died on Sunday, Britain's Ministry of Defence confirmed More follows. Share or comment on this article: All rights reserved for this news site dailymail and under his responsibility