According to the South African Civil Aviation spokesperson, Kabelo Ledwaba, the aircraft initially took off from Wonderboom airport in Pretoria en route to Vryburg when the accident occurred.

Ledwaba stated that the Accident and Incident Investigation Division is currently responsible for the investigations. He added that the aircraft was destroyed by a post-impact fire.

“As part of the probe, the investigators will examine the wreckage, study the weather information, assess aircraft and pilot’s records, interview witnesses and review any recorded data. We are also expecting to use that information to build-up an in-depth understanding of the circumstances surrounding this particular accident. Thereafter a detailed report will be released at the end of the investigation,” Ledwaba explained.

OFM News previously reported that police spokesperson, Sam Tselenyane, reported that the pilot was found dead at the scene while the passenger was left critically injured. He also stated that a charge of culpable homicide and Negligence or Reckless flying of an Aircraft in terms of the Aviation Act 17 of 1946 has been opened by the police.

Meanwhile, for safety reasons, families of the affected houses were instructed to evacuate until the investigation is completed.

OFM News/Elsabé Richard