DailySun
Durban – The remains found at North Beach have been confirmed to belong to pilot Andrew Blackwood-Murray, whose aircraft crashed into the ocean several weeks ago.
The remains were discovered on Friday evening.
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In a response to media questions on Saturday morning, 13 September 2025, KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma announced that the body was identified as that of South African Airways and aerobatic pilot, Andrew Blackwood-Murray.
MEC Duma stated, “The recovery of the remains will help Mr. Andrew Blackwood-Murray’s family find closure after a long period of uncertainty and grief.”
MEC Duma also expressed, “We pray for their strength during this challenging time.”
He added: “We commend the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), SA Police Service, and all other parties involved for their dedicated search efforts.”
Tragedy struck on 14 August 2025, during an airshow, when the experienced pilot’s ZS-AEC Extra 300 aircraft went down into the sea near Suncoast.
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MEC Duma noted that since the incident, the NSRI has been tirelessly searching for the missing pilot.
“They have persevered despite numerous challenges.”
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An NSRI representative mentioned, “Late on Friday night, 12 September 2025, Metro Police Search and Rescue, the SA Police Services, and local security responded to Bay of Plenty Beach, Durban, where a man’s body was located and recovered.”
The NSRI added, “The remains of the deceased were handed over to the Police and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services.”
“While it is believed that the body is that of missing pilot Andrew Blackwood-Murray, formal police procedures and identification are ongoing to honor the family’s wishes.”
“Our heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and colleagues.”
The police have opened an inquest docket.
The NSRI reported that the family of the deceased has opted not to participate in interviews and has requested privacy during this difficult time.
