A small plane crashed into the sea near Roatán Island shortly after takeoff, killing at least twelve people, including several U.S. citizens. Witnesses said the aircraft suddenly veered before hitting the water. Civil aviation official Carlos Padilla confirmed the plane “made a sharp right turn just after leaving the runway before plunging into the water,” leaving locals shocked as they watched it fall.
Rescue and recovery teams have struggled to reach the wreckage because of the difficult terrain. Roatán Fire Captain Franklin Borjas said, “The crash site is extremely difficult to reach. There are 30 meters of rocky terrain… Divers are operating in zero-visibility conditions underwater.” Honduran President Xiomara Castro activated the Emergency Operations Committee to coordinate the response.
Among the victims was renowned Honduran musician and politician Aurelio Martínez, a major figure in preserving and promoting Garífuna music. His work helped bring this Afro-Indigenous culture international recognition. Belize’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs honored him as “a great friend of Belize and a true champion of Garífuna culture and music,” adding that “his legacy will continue to inspire all who cherished his work.”
Authorities are investigating the cause, with early signs pointing to possible mechanical failure, though all scenarios remain under review. The U.S. State Department confirmed an American citizen was among the dead and offered condolences.
The tragedy has deeply affected families and communities across the region. While investigators work to uncover what happened, the cultural loss—especially the passing of Aurelio Martínez—continues to be felt far beyond the Caribbean.
