Tragedy struck off the coast of Roatán Island when a small passenger plane plunged into the Caribbean Sea, killing at least twelve people, including American citizens.
According to civil aviation official Carlos Padilla, the aircraft veered sharply to the right of the runway moments after takeoff before crashing into the water. A fisherman who narrowly escaped being struck described the harrowing scene as the plane hit the sea.
Rescue operations have been extremely difficult. “It’s been challenging to reach the accident site because there are 30 meters of rocks, making it impossible to get there on foot or by swimming,” explained Roatán Fire Captain Franklin Borjas. “Divers assisting in the mission are working in zero visibility.”
Honduran President Xiomara Castro has activated an Emergency Operations Committee to coordinate agencies responding to the disaster. Officials confirmed that 14 people, including crew members, were on board.
Among the victims was Aurelio Martínez, a beloved Honduran musician and politician, celebrated worldwide as a leading voice of Garífuna music—a vibrant Afro-Indigenous tradition with deep roots in St. Vincent. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Belize paid tribute to him, honoring him as a “great friend of Belize and a true champion of Garífuna culture and music.” They added, “His passing leaves a void in the world of music and culture, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who loved his art and his people.”
Authorities believe mechanical failure was the cause of the crash. The U.S. State Department has confirmed the death of at least one American citizen and extended condolences to the family.
Note: This report is a repost from March 17, 2025. Please share with your family and friends to honor the lives lost.
