Unexpected details have emerged ahead of the burial of Zimbabwean tycoon Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, following their fatal helicopter crash.
The couple are set to be buried together at Glen Forest Cemetery in Harare on Thursday, October 8, but a family spokesperson has revealed that they will be buried without their heads because the remains were not recovered following the crash.
Wicknell Chivayo and Lucy Muteke to Be Buried Without Heads
According to Chivayo’s family spokesperson and uncle, Herbert Chivayo, the condition of the victims’ remains after the helicopter crash made body viewing impossible.
Herbert said the crash scene at Kudenga Farm near Marondera was extremely severe, with the victims’ remains badly burnt and dismembered.
He also said the heads of Chivayo and Lucy Muteke were not recovered.
The family has therefore decided that there will be no viewing of the bodies before the burial.
Chivayo Helicopter Crash Killed Five People
Wicknell Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke, two pilots and a security aide died when the helicopter crashed at Kudenga Farm near Marondera on September 30.
The aircraft caught fire after the crash, leaving the victims with severe injuries and burns.
The pilots were identified as Captain Calvin Tafirei Soda and Captain Courage Mutavirwa, while Lucy’s aide, Sanelisiwe Magagula, was also among those killed.
The condition of the remains led authorities and the families to rely on forensic examinations and DNA identification to establish and match the victims.
Forensic and DNA Process Completed
The Chivayo family has said forensic and DNA procedures have been completed as preparations for the burial continue.
Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo said the family was waiting for the necessary burial orders before the final arrangements could proceed.
The family has also confirmed that Chivayo and Lucy Muteke will be buried side by side at Glen Forest Cemetery on October 8.
Chivayo and Wife’s Burial to Be Open to Public
The burial will not be a private event.
Members of the public will be allowed to attend and pay their final respects to Chivayo and his wife.
Transport will also reportedly be provided to Glen Forest Cemetery for mourners attending the burial.
The funeral comes less than two weeks after the helicopter crash that claimed the couple’s lives and shocked Zimbabwe.
Wicknell Chivayo’s Final Farewell
Chivayo was one of Zimbabwe’s most recognisable businessmen, known for his lavish lifestyle, high-profile relationships and strong social media presence.
His death in the helicopter crash attracted widespread attention across Zimbabwe and beyond, with political figures, business associates, friends and members of the public mourning his death.
The latest details concerning the condition of the remains have added another disturbing dimension to the tragedy.
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