Five American citizens lost their lives in a helicopter crash in northern Kenya on Wednesday, according to information from the U.S. State Department. The incident happened around 9 a.m. in the mountainous area near Kirish, located in Samburu County. According to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, there were seven people aboard the helicopter at the time.
Among the deceased is José Suárez, a well-known Telemundo executive who was responsible for overseeing multiple stations in Florida as the president and general manager. NBCUniversal News Group Chairman Cesar Conde revealed Suárez’s identity in a message to employees, according to NBC News.
Lady Lori Helicopters, the operator of the aircraft, expressed its profound sadness about the tragic event. The company offered its condolences to all those affected by the accident, stating in a social media post, “Our deepest sympathies are with the guests, crew, their families and loved ones, and all those affected by this tragic accident.”
The Eurocopter EC130 B4, used by Lady Lori and registered as 5Y-GYM, was on a charter flight from the Suyian Conservancy, a 44,000-acre private wildlife sanctuary, heading towards Ololokwe. The helicopter crashed near Mount Ololokwe, and the cause of the accident remains under investigation by relevant authorities.
The U.S. Embassy is closely collaborating with local officials, offering consular support. The U.S. State Department stated, “The Trump Administration has no higher priority than the safety and security of Americans. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones on their loss.”