The cause of the helicopter crash that killed ‘controversial’ businessman, Wicknell Chivhayo, his wife and three others in Mashonaland East last week has not yet been established, with investigators now conducting detailed forensic examinations of the recovered wreckage.
This was announced by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Zhemu Soda, during the post Cabinet briefing on Tuesday, who said preliminary on-site investigations had been completed, but authorities were yet to determine what caused the Bell 430 helicopter to crash at Kudenga Farm on 30 September 2026.
“The preliminary on-site investigations have been concluded, with wreckage recovered to the government hangar at Charles Airport to allow for detailed forensic examination, including international experts,” Min Soda said.
The helicopter, registered in Zimbabwe as ZPED and operated by Sky Helicopters Pvt Ltd, was on a private flight from Gandami in Chikomba District to Marondera when it crashed and all the five people on board died in the accident.
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The deceased were identified as pilot Captain Kelvin Soda, Chivhayo, his wife Lucy ‘Lulu’ Muteke, Senelisiwe Magagula and Captain Courage Mutavira.
Min Soda said government had instituted a full investigation in terms of Annex 13 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation and the Civil Aviation Act and investigators would examine the wreckage as well as a range of other factors before determining the circumstances surrounding the crash.
“The investigation will include examination of meteorological information, maintenance records and the records of both the operator and crew,” he said.
The minister added that a preliminary report will be expected in 30 days of the accident, in line with international investigation standards detailing examination of the wreckage, meteorological information including the weather, maintenance records, operator and crew records.
“The involvement of international experts in the forensic examination is expected to assist investigators in establishing what happened before the helicopter went down. Continuous update will be given as the nation mourns together with the bereaving families on this tragic and sad loss,” Min Soda said.
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