Colombian Lawmaker Among 15 Killed in Border Region Plane Crash
A tragic aviation incident has claimed the lives of a Colombian lawmaker and fourteen other individuals after a twin-propeller aircraft crashed in a mountainous area near the Venezuelan border. The aircraft, which was carrying fifteen people in total, including thirteen passengers and two crew members, went down under circumstances that have left authorities and the public in shock.
Details of the Fatal Flight
According to reports from AFP, the ill-fated flight departed from the border city of Cúcuta and was scheduled to land in the nearby town of Ocaña at approximately 5:00 p.m. GMT on January 28. However, the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control shortly before its intended landing, prompting immediate concerns among aviation officials.
An official from the aviation authority confirmed to AFP that there were no survivors from the crash, underscoring the severity of the accident. In response, the Colombian government swiftly deployed the Air Force to locate the wreckage and recover the bodies, highlighting the national significance of the incident.
Victims Include Prominent Figures
Among those on board was Diogenes Quintero, a member of Colombia's Chamber of Deputies, whose death has sent ripples through the political community. Also traveling was Carlos Salcedo, a candidate in the upcoming elections, adding to the tragedy's impact on the nation's electoral landscape.
Local parliamentarian Wilmer Carrillo expressed deep concern over the incident, stating, "We have received with concern the information about the air accident in which my colleague, Diogenes Quintero, Carlos Salcedo and their teams were travelling." His remarks reflect the broader sense of loss and urgency felt by officials and citizens alike.
Historical Context of Aviation Accidents
This crash adds to a troubling history of fatal aviation accidents involving prominent figures in Colombia. In a similar incident in January 2025, a private plane crashed in central-eastern Colombia, killing all six people on board, including popular singer Yeison Jiménez. These events raise questions about aviation safety and the risks associated with air travel in certain regions.
The mountainous terrain near the Venezuelan border, where the latest crash occurred, is known for its challenging flying conditions, which may have contributed to the accident. Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause and prevent future tragedies.
As Colombia mourns the loss of these individuals, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of stringent aviation protocols. The recovery efforts continue, with the nation awaiting further details from official reports.
