The man who died in an electric buggy crash on Necker Island late Friday has been identified as executive sous chef Sihle Somdaka, according to a report in The Irish Sun.
Somdaka, originally from Cape Town, South Africa, was taken by boat to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital on Tortola, where he was pronounced dead. A second individual sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated locally, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) said.
Officers from the RVIPF and other agencies remain on the island to collect witness statements and investigate the circumstances of the crash.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool said in a statement, “We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased. This is a tragic event, and the RVIPF is committed to conducting a thorough investigation.”
According to The Irish Sun, the crash occurred shortly after a staff farewell gathering at Necker Island’s Great House. Somdaka, a father of two, reportedly lost control of the buggy while driving down a steep hill. Island medics performed CPR before arranging transport to Tortola.
A spokesperson for Virgin Limited Edition, which manages Necker Island, said, “It is with deepest sadness that we can confirm that one of our Necker Island team members sadly passed away on Saturday. They were a hugely talented and exceptional member of the Necker Island family, and we are all devastated by this news. Our utmost priority is the wellbeing of their family and friends, and that of our team.”
The Irish Sun also reported that Sir Richard Branson, who owns the 74-acre island, was not present when the incident occurred but has been in contact with Somdaka’s family and staff.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.
