Prominent Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, were among six people killed when a helicopter crashed near Marondera, about 72 kilometres east of Harare, on Wednesday.

Police said the helicopter crashed at about 3 p.m. and caught fire, killing everyone on board. Authorities said investigations were underway to establish the cause of the crash and identify all six victims.

Chivayo, 43, was known for his lavish lifestyle and close ties to Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF party. His company had secured major government energy contracts, including a deal worth more than $170 million to construct a solar power plant in Gwanda.

His family has confirmed his death.