Wicknell Chivayo: Why Investigators Were Forced To Conduct DNA Tests On Each Body After Crash

Details have emerged on why investigators are now turning to DNA tests to identify the victims of the helicopter accident that claimed the lives of Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and several others.

Chivayo, his wife Lucy Muteke, two pilots and a security aide died when their helicopter came down at Kudenga Farm near Marondera on Wednesday.The devastating crash left the victims’ remains severely damaged, making it difficult for relatives and authorities to establish their identities through normal means.

The aircraft also caught fire after the impact, worsening the condition of the remains.

As a result, forensic experts are conducting DNA examinations to determine the identities of those who died. The process will allow investigators to match the recovered remains with the victims’ relatives before the remains are released for burial.

The condition of the bodies has also forced Chivayo’s family to make a painful decision regarding the funeral. Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed that relatives and mourners will not be allowed to view the bodies before burial.

He said the decision was prompted by the extensive damage caused by the crash and the fire that followed.Chivayo and Muteke are due to be laid to rest at Glen Forest Cemetery in Harare on Thursday, October 8. Members of the public will be allowed to attend the burial and join the family in paying their final respects.

The families of pilots Captain Calvin Tafirei Soda and Captain Courage Matavirwa are also making arrangements to lay their loved ones to rest.

At the same time, forensic teams remain engaged in the identification exercise as authorities work to establish which remains belong to each victim.

The DNA analysis is expected to provide families with confirmation and certainty before the remains are handed over for burial.

The fatal accident has left several families grieving, while investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the helicopter crash.

https://eastleighvoice.co.ke/headlines/408131/wicknell-chivayo-wife-to-be-buried-on-october-8-at-glen-forest-cemetery

If you liked this story, please follow or tip the author to help them write more!

ProfHamo feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com