A tragic helicopter crash in Zimbabwe has left the country mourning after prominent businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, were killed alongside four other people.
Disturbing footage reportedly recorded at the crash scene has circulated widely online, showing the aftermath of the accident and the fire that followed the impact. The graphic nature of the footage has triggered strong reactions from viewers, with many expressing shock and grief over the tragedy.
The helicopter crashed in the Marondera Rural area, east of Harare, at around 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 30. Reports indicate that six people were aboard the aircraft, and there were no survivors.
Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed the deaths of Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, saying the family was struggling to come to terms with the devastating news.
“We are at a loss for words after the tragic news,” Herbert said, according to reports carried by Zimbabwean state media.
Zimbabwean police also confirmed that a helicopter carrying six occupants had crashed in the Marondera area. Authorities subsequently began efforts to identify the victims and investigate what caused the aircraft to go down.
Preliminary information from Zimbabwe's Civil Aviation Authority indicated that the helicopter caught fire after fuel spilled following the impact. Officials stressed that investigations were still underway to establish the exact circumstances that led to the crash.
The deaths have prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the region. Kenyan President William Ruto was among those who mourned Chivayo, describing him as a dear friend and extending condolences to the bereaved families.
As investigators continue examining the crash site, the full circumstances surrounding the fatal flight remain under investigation.