Family awaits DNA results of chopper pilot

The late Captain Mario Magonga.

The family of Deputy President William Ruto’s late pilot Captain Mario Magonga who perished in a chopper crash in Turkana County are still waiting for DNA results of the remains.

Speaking yesterday, the family through the sister of the deceased, Gladys Magonga said they are waiting for the DNA results from America before proceeding with burial plans.

Sample of bones collected from the crash scene were taken to America for analysis after Kenyan pathologists failed to identify the DNA of the late pilot.

She said: “There is no body. What was found were bones of our brother and his passengers which Kenyan pathologists could not ascertain if they were that of our late brother and the family has resolved to wait until DNA results are out before we proceed with burial arrangements,’’ she said.

Magonga died alongside four other American citizens on March 3, at Central Island National Park in Lake Turkana.

On Friday Ruto visited the pilot’s family at their Karen home in Nairobi to condole with them.

The Deputy President described Magonga who flew him on several occasions, as an accomplished, disciplined and reliable pilot who loved his job.

“He was friendly, humble and given to banter. Captain Magonga was charitable, intelligent and had impeccable credentials. He will be sorely missed,” said Ruto.