South African chef Sihle Somdaka has died on Richard Branson’s private Caribbean resort, Necker Island, after an accident late on Friday night, 29 August 2025.
Rising South African chef dies in Caribbean accident
Authorities in the British Virgin Islands have confirmed the death and are investigating, but said there is no evidence of foul play at this stage.
According to British Virgin Islands officials, Somdaka was driving an electric buggy down a steep hill shortly after midnight when he lost control and crashed.
The 37-year-old father of two suffered a serious head injury.
Witnesses said that Somdaka had attended a farewell party at the island’s Great House before leaving in the buggy.
Medical staff on the island attempted to resuscitate him with CPR and then transported him by boat to a hospital. Despite their efforts, he was declared dead shortly afterwards.
Police confirmed that the crash is under investigation but stressed that the early findings point to a tragic accident.
Who was Sihle Somdaka?
Somdaka, originally from Cape Town, had built an impressive culinary career working in top restaurants in Kuwait and Qatar before joining the exclusive team of chefs on Necker Island.
On his social media accounts, he recently shared posts about his new “Caribbean life,” showing images of sunsets, beaches, and water sports.
Friends and family described him as passionate about food, hardworking, and proud of the opportunities his career had brought him.
Richard Branson reacts to the tragedy
Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson was not on Necker Island at the time of the incident but issued a statement expressing his condolences.
He said he was “deeply saddened” by Somdaka’s death and confirmed that the resort was providing support to his family and colleagues.
Branson’s private island has long been known as a retreat for the rich and famous, hosting celebrities such as Princess Diana, Mariah Carey, Harry Styles, and former US president Barack Obama.
