A tragic helicopter accident in South Africa has claimed the life of celebrated chef, pilot, and TV personality Mynie Steffens, aged 43.
According to IOL, George Herald, and Cape Argus, Steffens died when the helicopter she was flying crashed at a citrus farm near Patensie in the Eastern Cape on Monday, Nov. 10.
Steffens — a skilled pilot, cookbook author, and co-host of the lifestyle cooking show Speel met Vuur — had been spraying pesticide over orange orchards around 8 a.m. when the helicopter struck power lines and went down, SABC News and IOL reported.
In a statement cited by the Accidents and Incidents Investigations Division (AIID), officials confirmed:
“Information at our disposal indicates that the pilot was conducting a pest control operation flight when the helicopter struck power lines and crashed. The helicopter itself was substantially damaged due to impact force.”
Photos published by George Herald showed the damaged helicopter in a grassy field, with parts of its frame torn apart from the collision.
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Authorities are currently investigating the incident. The South African Police Service has not yet issued a public statement.
Steffens co-created Speel met Vuur with her longtime friend Aldi van der Walt, with whom she also co-authored a cookbook of the same name. The pair reunited after 16 years apart before launching their VIA TV show, according to IOL.
Van der Walt described her friend’s sudden death as a “massive shock” and “tragic loss,” telling IOL that Steffens “lived life to the full.”
“She was always full of ideas that turned into successful endeavors, winning people over wherever she went,” Van der Walt said. “She made time for everyone, no matter their background — that was her gift.”
She added that Steffens “had a big heart, gentle soul, and the glue that kept people together. She had patience, kindness, and humor that made her truly irresistible. I will miss my friend deeply.”
In a heartfelt Facebook tribute, VIA TV honored the late chef:
“Rest in peace, Mynie Steffens. You were adventurous until the end. With #PlayWithFire, you showed us all how to approach life with curiosity and bravery. Sleep softly.”
