A helicopter carrying six people crashed in Zimbabwe’s Marondera Rural area on Wednesday evening, killing everyone on board.
The crash occurred at around 5pm in Marondera, about 70 kilometres east of the capital, Harare, according to Zimbabwean authorities.
Among those reported killed was prominent Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy “Lulu” Muteke.
Chivayo’s family later confirmed to Zimbabwe’s national broadcaster ZBC that the couple were among the victims.
Zimbabwean police initially confirmed that six people were aboard the aircraft but said they would release the identities after the victims had been formally identified.
Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana said the helicopter was carrying four passengers and two pilots and that there were no survivors.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the crash site, where the aircraft reportedly caught fire.
The cause of the crash has not yet been established, with authorities expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, including the aircraft's condition and flight details.
Chivayo was a well-known Zimbabwean businessman whose high-profile lifestyle and close links with political and business figures across the region frequently attracted public attention.
The identities of the other victims have not yet been publicly confirmed by police.
Authorities are continuing investigations into the crash.
Zimbabwe Helicopter Crash Kills Six, Businessman Wicknell Chivayo Among Victims
A helicopter carrying six people crashed in Zimbabwe’s Marondera Rural area on Wednesday evening, killing everyone on board. The crash occurred at around 5pm in Marondera, about 70...
By editor·October 1, 2026·2 min read
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