Body Found at North Beach Identified as Missing Pilot Andrew Blackwood-Murray
Durban – The remains found at North Beach have been confirmed to belong to pilot Andrew Blackwood-Murray, whose aircraft went down into the ocean several weeks ago.
The remains were discovered on Friday evening.
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In response to media inquiries on the morning of Saturday, 13 September 2025, KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma announced that the body has been identified as that of South African Airways and aerobatic pilot Andrew Blackwood-Murray.
MEC Duma stated, “The recovery of the remains will provide Mr. Andrew Blackwood-Murray’s family with closure after a prolonged period of uncertainty and grief.”
MEC Duma further expressed, “We extend our prayers for strength to them during this difficult time.”
He added: “We commend the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), SA Police Service, and all involved parties for their cooperative search efforts.”
Tragedy struck on 14 August 2025 during an airshow when the talented pilot’s ZS-AEC Extra 300 aircraft crashed into the sea near Suncoast.
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MEC Duma highlighted that the NSRI has been tirelessly searching for the missing pilot since the incident.
“They have persisted despite encountering numerous challenges.”
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An NSRI representative stated, “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 found and recovered.”
The NSRI further noted, “The remains of the deceased were transferred to the Police and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services.”
“While it is indicated that the body is that of missing pilot Andrew Blackwood-Murray, formal police procedures and identification are still ongoing to respect the family’s wishes.”
“Our condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues.”
The police have opened an inquest docket.
The NSRI mentioned that the family of the deceased has chosen not to engage in interviews and has requested privacy during this challenging time.