Flatley shock as aide killed

A SHOCKED and devastated Michael Flatley arrived in South Africa last night to help comfort a Lord of the Dance troupe following the murder of a crew member.

A young British merchandising executive, working with the dance troupe, died after a suspected mugging.

The tragedy occurred in Johannesburg on Saturday night outside the hotel where the cast and crew were staying.

The victim was not named but it was believed he was returning from the Civic Theatre to the nearby Parktonian Hotel when he was gunned down.

Police said he was shot three times on the hotel steps and died at the scene.

Members of the cast and crew were in the foyer at the time of the shooting and tried in vain to resuscitate their colleague.

South African police said the deceased was possibly the victim of a mugging incident. His name is being withheld until relatives have been notified.

A spokesperson for Michael Flatley said the dance king was devastated by the tragic incident.

Members of the cast and crew, who were being assisted yesterday by doctors and counsellors, are also deeply traumatised.

The Lord of the Dance troupe was on a six-week tour of South Africa which began in Johannesburg on June 11.

Prior to Mr Flatley’s departure to South Africa, it was decided to cancel the cast’s final performances in Johannesburg.