A tragic plane crash off the coast of Roatan Island, Honduras, has claimed twelve lives, including celebrated Garifuna musician Aurelio Martinez. The Lanhsa Airlines flight went down shortly after takeoff on Monday, prompting an urgent response from national authorities and rescue teams.
According to the Honduran transport ministry, the aircraft was carrying fourteen passengers and three crew members en route to La Ceiba on the mainland. Among the victims were two children, a French citizen, and a U.S. national, local police confirmed.
The crash occurred roughly one kilometer from Roatan International Airport, a popular tourist area surrounded by coral reefs. Images from the scene showed emergency teams working late into the night, using torchlight to recover bodies from the sea.
Rescue operations have faced major challenges due to poor weather conditions and limited visibility. Franklin Borjas, Roatan’s fire chief, confirmed that search and recovery efforts remain ongoing, with one person still missing as of the latest update.
In response to the disaster, President Xiomara Castro activated the country’s Emergency Operations Committee (COE). The coordinated effort involves the Armed Forces, National Police, Red Cross, Ministry of Health, and other agencies working together at the crash site and nearby hospitals.
All survivors and injured passengers have been transported to medical facilities in San Pedro Sula and La Ceiba for treatment. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash while prioritizing the recovery of victims.
President Castro expressed her condolences to the families affected and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing full support. “May God protect people’s lives,” she stated, calling the tragedy a national loss.
As Honduras mourns the victims, tributes pour in for Aurelio Martinez, whose music celebrated Garifuna culture and unity — a legacy now remembered with sorrow and deep respect.
