Some of you may have known David, for those who didn't, you have missed the opportunity to hear an unbelieveable speaker and meet a real gentleman. This is a great loss and a reminder of how dangerous South Africa can be. We are in shock as we had been guests of his at the Fugitives' Drift Lodge in early December and received an e-mail from him yesterday about he and Nicky finally getting to see Comet McNaught. An article is here: http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/...ca-Rattray.php

Dear tuckeg:

I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your friend who was a friend to so many. It must be very hard for you to process having just heard from him yesterday and also visiting him and his family just a short time ago.

Sincerely,
Den

Another reminder today:
http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/africa....ap/index.html

A terrible senseless loss.

A tragedy.

sorry to hear. Awful news!!!

tuckeg:

Please keep us posted on the motive developments if you can. I do think it is important to be aware of the dangers that may lurk where one travels but after reading much about your friend David today I would think many folks would like to continue with their plans visit the area and enjoy his works.

I live 30 miles SW of Philadelphia, PA where the violent crime (murder rate) is the highest in the U.S. right now. I wonder how my city of Brotherly Love looks on paper to folks wanting to come to Philly. I am cautious but I often travel into the city to dine.

Den

Den,

I lived/went to university in Philly for 6 years in the 90's before moving back home to India.

Really, dont think it is that bad.....i used to stay out in Roxborough. Eagles, Eagles, Eagles!!!!!!!!

Hari

Hari:

You really are a man of this whole wide world!

Sadly, my stats are true at the moment but it has not stopped me and shall not.

SIDEBAR: My sense has always pegged you as tall, svelte and handsome by your posts!

Den

My SIDEBAR to Hari has meaning in regards to an earlier thread I am just slow on input! 4give! I could not resist since I had his attention! •
Den

Thanks, Den.

Here's a link to the website for the Rattray's lodges http://www.fugitives-drift-lodge.com/home/

I will try to post any follow-ups I get but their site will probably also have information posted at some point.

Here are a couple more stories on the murder:

http://www.int.iol.co.za/index.php?s...9889484736B265


http://www.int.iol.co.za/index.php?s...9906942974B265

I was very shocked to read of the murder of David Rattray. My late husband and I stayed at Fugitives Drift Lodge in 1996 and were lucky enough to have David give his wonderful talks at both Isandalwana and Rorkes Drift. It was an unforgetable experience. He also gave lectures at The Royal Geographical Society's headquarters in London. He could hold and entrance an audience like no-one else. My thoughts and condolences are with Nicky and his sons.

Hello,

This is a true tragedy, and my thoughts are with Nicky and the family. I didn't have the opportunity to stay at Fugitive's Drift but I did attend one of Mr Rattray's spellbinding lectures at the Royal Geographical Society. I had hoped to meet Mr Rattray at Indaba in May.

We are assisting the UK company which represents Fugitives' Drift in putting together a condolences book for the family. If anyone would like to contribute, please drop me an email.

Cheers,
Julian

There have been arrests in the case:
http://allafrica.com/stories/200701310638.html

We'll be e-mailing you Julian.

Hi George,

Thanks for the update. I'll keep an eye out for your email.

Cheers,
Julian

One of the gang has confessed, already been convicted, and is awaiting sentencing. A second is under arrest. It is unclear if the shooter and the planner are under arrest.

http://www.news24.com/News24/South_A...063839,00.html

http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/arti...1-ArticlePage2

An article on David Rattray's contribution to the local community:

http://allafrica.com/stories/200702051171.html