Wicknell Chivayo's Family Confirms No Public Viewing After Crash

The family of Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo confirmed that there will be no public viewing of his remains or those of his wife, Lucy Muteke, following their tragic deaths in a helicopter crash on October 1, 2026, which also claimed the lives of three others: pilot Calvin Tafirei Soda, co-pilot Courage Mutavirwa, and security aide Saneliswe Magagula. Herbert Chivayo, the family spokesperson, stated that the physical condition of the remains made a traditional viewing impossible, as forensic teams were still conducting examinations and DNA testing for identification.

The couple will be buried together, with Lucy's relatives approving the joint funeral arrangements. A burial date and location remain unconfirmed pending the completion of forensic identification.

Herbert also mentioned that Wicknell Chivayo had expressed his wishes for his children to inherit the majority of his wealth, a desire the family intends to honor. The crash has drawn significant attention in Zimbabwe due to Chivayo's prominence in business and his connections to political figures, including a condolence visit from President Emmerson Mnangagwa.