Musicians, DJ among 10 dead after plane crashes in the Bahamas
Tragic Aviation Incident Claims Ten Lives in the Bahamas
Musicians DJ among 10 dead after - A devastating aviation accident has resulted in the loss of ten lives on the largest island within the Bahamas archipelago, according to statements from local authorities. Among those perished were several prominent figures from the Caribbean music scene, including a disc jockey and members of a well-known local band.
The Crash Details and Timeline
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority confirmed that a Cessna 402 aircraft met its fate shortly after one o'clock in the afternoon on Friday, July 10. The plane had recently taken off from Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau when the incident occurred. Bearing the registration C6-FLX, the aircraft was traveling toward San Andros Airport situated on Andros Island at the time of the tragedy.
Flamingo Air operated the flight, and according to official statements, the aircraft "encountered difficulties and crashed into bushes prior to landing" in the North Andros region. Emergency responders from multiple agencies quickly mobilized to the scene. The Royal Bahamas Police Force, Airport Authority, and emergency medical personnel all participated in the response efforts.
Adding to the sorrow of the moment, the crash occurred on the nation's Independence Day, making it a particularly poignant occasion for the Bahamian people.
Evolution of the Death Toll
Initial reports from the AAIA indicated that seven individuals had lost their lives. However, during a subsequent news conference, Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis provided updated information, stating that ten people were aboard the aircraft and one person had survived the initial impact. Tragically, Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles later confirmed that the sole survivor also passed away.
"Ann and I are praying for the families who are now facing unbearable grief," Davis also wrote in post on X. "We are also praying for the survivor, whose recovery and care will remain in our thoughts. This is a painful moment. The families affected deserve compassion, privacy, and support as the investigation proceeds."
The identities of the victims were not immediately disclosed to the public following the incident.
Music Community Mourns
A post on the social media platform X revealed that the Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union announced the presence of local musicians and a DJ among those who died. The union issued a statement honoring the deceased members of their community.
"Among the dearly departed are some of the talented and vibrant members of our entertainment community, including members of The Pond Band and a DJ," the union said. "(Their) passion, dedication, and artistry touched so many lives and helped to enrich the cultural fabric of The Bahamas."
USA TODAY has contacted the entertainment union for additional details regarding the victims.
Related Aviation Incident and Safety Measures
On Monday, July 13, while the investigation into the fatal crash continued, another aviation incident occurred involving the same airline. Earlier that day, a Flamingo Air flight destined for Mayaguana, the country's easternmost island, returned to Nassau after the pilot expressed concerns. Bahamian Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis addressed this during a press conference.
Following the landing and passenger deplaning, the aircraft caught fire, though no injuries were reported in that separate incident. In response, the Ministry of Energy, Utilities and Aviation announced via Facebook that the Civil Aviation Authority Bahamas had "temporarily suspended" Flamingo Air's Air Operator Certificate as a precautionary safety measure while the AAIA investigates both crashes.
USA TODAY has also reached out to Flamingo Air for further information regarding these events.
How to Provide Information
Individuals with relevant information about either crash are encouraged to contact the AAIA by calling +1 242-376-8334 or by visiting baaid@bahamas.gov.bs for more details.
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund