A father and daughter died Monday in a small plane crash in Coral Springs, Florida, while on their way to Jamaica for a humanitarian mission. Alexander Wurm, 53, and his daughter, Serena Wurm, 22, were transporting hurricane relief supplies when the plane went down shortly after taking off from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport. The crash occurred “about five minutes after departure” in a residential waterway, and no one else was hurt.
The National Transportation Safety Board has opened an investigation to determine what caused the accident.
Ignite the Fire Ministry, the organization the Wurm family helped lead, paid tribute to them, calling Alexander a man defined by “warmth and unwavering kindness.” The ministry said he spent years traveling to serve communities in need, leaving a lasting impact through generosity and faith.
Serena shared her father’s commitment to helping others. She was remembered as “a beacon of empathy and hope,” someone who inspired people through her compassion and dedication to service.
The ministry added that “together, their final journey embodied selflessness and courage,” highlighting how their actions reflected their values and mission.
Alexander and Serena leave behind wife and mother Candace Wurm, as well as Alexander’s two other children, James, 17, and Christiana, 20. Family and friends say the loss is devastating, but the pair will be remembered for lives grounded in love, service, and a deep devotion to helping others.