Real Survival Stories: Episode Summary
"Upended in a Lake: Ivory Coast Ambush"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Real Survival Stories
- Host/Author: NOISER
- Description: True stories of ordinary people thrust into extraordinary survival situations. Stranded in the desert. Lost in the jungle. Marooned in the mountains. Shipwrecked on the high seas. You'll hear from individuals who had everything against them. But even then, they refused to give in…
- Episode: Upended in a Lake: Ivory Coast Ambush
- Release Date: June 25, 2025
- Host: John Hopkins
- Production: Joel Duddell, Ed Baranski, Luke Lonergan, Miri Latham, Jacob Booth, Liam Cameron, Rob Plummer, Cian Ryan-Morgan, Cody Reynolds-Shaw
- Music: Oliver Baines, Dorry Macaulay, Tom Pink
Introduction
In the gripping episode titled "Upended in a Lake: Ivory Coast Ambush," hosted by John Hopkins, listener Jonathan Richie recounts his harrowing survival experience during a fishing trip in the Ivory Coast. This detailed narrative delves into the unexpected confrontation with one of Africa's most formidable creatures—the hippopotamus—and the ensuing battle for survival that tested Jonathan's resilience and the unwavering support of his family.
Background: Jonathan Richie's Upbringing and Skills
Jonathan Richie, a 21-year-old at the time of the incident, grew up in a unique environment that bridged American and African cultures. As the child of American missionaries in the Ivory Coast, Jonathan developed essential survival skills from a young age.
Quote:
"I grew up very independent and knew how to survive on my own. And even today I would describe myself as a survivalist."
— Jonathan Richie [07:30]
Jonathan's upbringing involved hunting, fishing, and practical skills like fixing car engines and carpentry, instilling in him a strong sense of self-reliance and adaptability.
The Fishing Trip to Lake Koso
In July 1979, Jonathan joined his father, Clyde, and his uncle, Ray, for a traditional fishing expedition on Lake Koso—the largest lake in the Ivory Coast, created six years prior by a hydraulic dam system. The lake was renowned for its abundant fish, making it a popular spot for both local fishermen and tourists.
Quote:
"I'm looking forward to catching some very large fish. Some of these fish would get up to 50, sometimes even 75 pounds."
— Jonathan Richie [06:53]
The family set out early in the morning, filled with excitement and anticipation for a day of quality time and successful fishing. The serene environment of the lake provided a perfect backdrop for their activity, with lush greenery surrounding the tranquil waters.
The Attack: Hippopotamus Aggression
As the day progressed, the tranquility of Lake Koso was shattered by a sudden and violent attack from a hippopotamus—one of Africa's most aggressive and deadly animals. Hippopotamuses, despite being herbivores, are known for their territorial nature and formidable physical strength.
The Attack Unfolds: While maneuvering their boat through logs and trees, Jonathan noticed approaching disturbances in the water. Without warning, the water erupted as a massive hippopotamus capsized their boat, pulling Jonathan into the water.
Quote:
"The hippopotamus had come right up under the water, had come right up in front of us and had grabbed a hold of my leg and his tooth actually went right through my leg right above my right ankle and hooked me just like you would a fish."
— Jonathan Richie [14:56]
The initial assault left Jonathan severely injured, with a deep puncture wound above his right ankle. The strength of the hippo made escape seem impossible as it violently shook him, attempting to drown him.
Quote:
"At that moment, people ask, were you afraid? Were you scared? And I can't say I was. At that point, it was like, I'm dead. You know, there's nothing you can do about this."
— Jonathan Richie [16:22]
Despite the overwhelming odds, Jonathan mustered the will to fight back. Through sheer determination, he managed to pry himself free from the hippopotamus's grip, although not without sustaining further injuries that severely impacted his mobility and health.
The Aftermath: Survival and Rescue Efforts
After the initial attack, Jonathan found himself floating on the grassy banks of the lake, severely injured and disoriented. His father, Clyde, despite his own injuries, knew he needed to seek help to save his son.
Quote:
"My dad had served in this area for many years and believed he knew where there would be a village about 7 or so kilometers away. But he would have to go there to get help because between the two of us, we knew that we couldn't transport me out of there."
— Jonathan Richie [28:27]
Clyde and Uncle Ray worked together to stabilize Jonathan, applying bandanas as makeshift tourniquets to control the bleeding from his severe leg wounds. Recognizing the urgency, Clyde embarked on a perilous journey through dense foliage to locate a nearby village.
Quote:
"Clyde speeds back through the undergrowth... it's a slow, frustrating journey."
— Narrator
Clyde's extensive knowledge of the terrain and his connections in the local community proved crucial. After encountering farmers who recognized him, he secured transportation back to their location, rallying a search party to assist in rescuing Jonathan.
Medical Treatment and Recovery
Rescued by Clyde and the search party, Jonathan was swiftly transported to a mission hospital on the outskirts of the desert. The medical team faced significant challenges due to the extent of his injuries, which included severe blood loss and potential threats of infection.
Quote:
"The doctors were not sure whether they could even save my life. At that point, they thought for sure they were going to have to take my right leg."
— Jonathan Richie [39:20]
In an extraordinary turn of events, fly larvae (maggots) naturally infested Jonathan's wounds, consuming the infected tissue and preventing further infection—an age-old practice known among local tribes for its medicinal benefits.
Jonathan's determination played a pivotal role in his recovery. Despite medical expectations, he underwent multiple surgeries, including skin grafts, and embarked on a rigorous rehabilitation regimen to regain his strength and mobility.
Quote:
"I had been in pretty good shape, and I thought, you know, I'm going to do my best to try to get back on the soccer field, defy the odds."
— Jonathan Richie [41:16]
By the end of the summer, Jonathan had made remarkable progress, returning to an active lifestyle and even participating in sports, underscoring his indomitable spirit and will to survive.
Reflection and Life Impact
Jonathan's survival experience had a profound impact on his outlook on life. Reflecting upon the incident, he realized the importance of faith, resilience, and the support of loved ones in overcoming life-threatening challenges.
Quote:
"I believe that my life was spared for a purpose... I relinquished that to him and said, okay, open the doors for me. I'll step through them and you guide me, you lead me."
— Jonathan Richie [42:19]
This life-altering event transformed Jonathan, helping him to overcome previous uncertainties about his life's direction. Embracing a newfound sense of purpose and faith, he no longer feared death and found peace in letting go of control over uncontrollable circumstances.
Conclusion and Insights
"Upended in a Lake: Ivory Coast Ambush" is a testament to human resilience and the unyielding will to survive against nature's formidable challenges. Jonathan Richie's story highlights:
- The Power of Survival Instincts: Even in moments of near-death, the human spirit can find the strength to fight against overwhelming odds.
- Family Support: The unwavering support and swift actions of Clyde and Ray were instrumental in Jonathan's survival.
- Faith and Purpose: The incident led Jonathan to a deeper understanding of faith and purpose, reshaping his life trajectory.
This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the extraordinary measures individuals can take to preserve it.
End of Summary