A Pretoria wildlife veterinarian, Dr Alwyn Venter, was one of three people who died on Sunday afternoon when their helicopter crashed and caught fire in mountainous terrain near Daniëlskuil, Northern Cape.

According to Pretoria Rekord, the victims were Venter, his veterinary assistant Angelo Robbertse and pilot Anlo Ferreira.

Helicopter burst into flames after impact

The group was reportedly travelling from the farm Elandsvlakte to Olifantshoek when the Sud Aviation SE 3130 Alouette II helicopter struck the Kuruman Hills, crashed and burst into flames.

The deceased were aged between 23 and 35. Venter lived in Pretoria, while Ferreira was from the Rustenburg area.

Tributes pour in for Venter and Robbertse

On the Nyumbu Wildlife Facebook page, Venter was remembered as more than a veterinarian: ‘A friend and guide, someone trusted by both people and animals’.

“Our hearts are broken as we say goodbye to two incredible people, Dr Alwyn Venter and his assistant Angelo Robbertse.

“Dr Venter was more than just our vet, he was a friend, a guide and someone we trusted deeply with our animals and our hearts. Angelo’s quiet dedication and kind spirit always shone through in every visit.

“Together, they brought comfort, care and laughter to our farm and to so many others.

“We are so grateful for the compassion and friendship they shared with us over the years. Their loss leaves an emptiness that words can’t describe.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones during this heartbreaking time.

“Rest peacefully, Alwyn and Angelo. You will always be part of our farm family.”

Venter leaves behind his wife and two small children.

Investigation under way

The Accidents and Incidents Investigations Division (AIID) confirmed that an Alouette helicopter (registration ZU-RAL) crashed at Daniëlskuil on Sunday.

Spokesperson Sisi Majola said all three occupants on board – a pilot and two other people – were fatally injured.

“The pilot was ferrying the aircraft from Elandsvlakte to Olifantshoek. The aircraft crashed in Kurumanheuwels in Daniëlskuil.

“The helicopter itself was substantially damaged because of the impact force and the post-impact fire destroyed the aircraft.”

Majola added that investigators have been dispatched to the crash site and a preliminary report will be published on the South African Civil Aviation Authority website 30 days from the date of the incident.

“AIID extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.”

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