Prominent Victoria Falls lawyer dies while water rafting

The Victoria Falls community is mourning the tragic death of prominent lawyer and adventurer Mr Paul Connolly, who died on Sunday afternoon at Rapid 19 on the Zambezi River.

According to reports from the scene, Mr Connolly was kayaking with a group of friends when he is believed to have suffered a heart attack, resulting in him being submerged in the powerful rapids.

A recovery operation was immediately launched, with a helicopter deployed to assist in locating and retrieving his body. This reporter witnessed the helicopter landing at a local helipad, from where Mr Connolly's remains were transferred to the hospital mortuary for official procedures.

Mr Connolly was a highly respected figure in Victoria Falls and beyond. A qualified legal practitioner, he was a partner at Connolly and Hofmeyr Legal Practitioners, where he built a reputation for professionalism and integrity.

Outside the courtroom, he was widely known as an adventurer and entrepreneur. He was a founder of the renowned tourism and activity company Shearwater, and played a pivotal role in the development and global recognition of Victoria Falls as a premier adventure tourism destination.

Tributes have begun to pour in from across the legal, tourism and adventure communities, reflecting the profound impact Mr Connolly had on the town and the many lives he touched.