Executive Chef Dies in Buggy Crash on Branson's Necker Island

Sir Richard Branson expressed deep sadness after executive sous chef Sihle Somdaka died in a buggy crash on Branson's private Caribbean retreat, Necker Island. Somdaka, 37, originally from Cape Town and regarded as a rising star in the culinary world, lost control of an electric buggy shortly after leaving a farewell party at the island's Great House, resulting in a fatal head injury. Despite immediate medical attention and transportation to Peebles Hospital on Tortola, Somdaka was pronounced dead. The British Virgin Islands police have launched a full investigation into the circumstances of the crash, with island staff cooperating closely with local authorities. An insider suggested a "culture of excess" at the luxury resort may have contributed, noting previous near incidents. Branson, who was not on the island at the time, has maintained close contact with Somdaka's family and the Necker Island team during this tragic time.