A fatal accident occurred on billionaire Sir Richard Branson’s private island, Necker Island, resulting in the death of Sihle Somdaka, 37, an executive sous chef and father of two. According to reports, Somdaka sustained a fatal head injury after losing control of an electric buggy while driving down a steep hillside on the British Virgin Islands resort.

The incident unfolded shortly before midnight as Somdaka left a party at the island’s Great House, the former residence of Branson and his wife. Island medics and a doctor from nearby Moskito Island performed CPR before he was transported by boat to Peebles Hospital on Tortola, where he was later pronounced dead.

Police in the British Virgin Islands have launched an investigation into the tragedy, which has shocked the island’s close-knit community. A source revealed that the resort was known for a “culture of excess,” with reports of “many close shaves and near misses” over the years. Another insider stated, “It was only a matter of time, but it should never have happened.”

Somdaka, described as a rising star in the culinary world, had worked in high-end restaurants across the Middle East before joining Branson’s £95,000-per-night private island. Days prior to his death, he shared social media posts celebrating his time at Necker Island, captioning one photo: “Caribbean life.”

Branson, who was not on the island during the incident, has been in contact with Somdaka’s family and the Necker Island team, expressing deep sadness over the tragedy. Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash.