Lady Lori Helicopters has confirmed that all seven people aboard its charter helicopter died when the aircraft crashed near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County, Kenya, on the morning of August 19, 2026. The company released an official statement later that day, identifying the aircraft as a Eurocopter EC130 B4 registered as 5Y-GYM. The helicopter was carrying guests from Suyian Conservancy towards the Ololokwe area on behalf of safari operator &Beyond when it went down near Kirish.
Details of the Crash and Immediate Response
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) reported that the helicopter went down at approximately 9:13 a.m. local time. The KCAA stated it was coordinating with relevant agencies and stakeholders, while Kenya's Air Accident Investigation Department, operating under the Ministry of Roads and Transport, is heading the formal inquiry. The cause of the crash remains unknown, according to Lady Lori Helicopters.
The Kenya Red Cross noted that the crash site in the rugged foothills of Mount Ololokwe was difficult to access. Drones were deployed to assess conditions on the ground. Witnesses nearby described thick black smoke and intense flames rising from the wreckage shortly after the aircraft came down.
Victims Identified by Authorities
Police confirmed there were no survivors. Local authorities named the pilot as Josh Outran. The six passengers were identified as Roger Duarte, Adam Navaty, Stephen Vasconquez, Henry Parra, Michael Contugi, and Suian Suarez. Among those killed was Michele Sensi Contugi, described in reports as a prominent Italian-Ecuadorian businessman and politician who formerly served as president of Ecuador's national intelligence agency. He was reportedly travelling with his wife, identified in various reports as either Suian Suarez or Stephany Vasconez. The nationalities of all the victims have not yet been officially confirmed.
Company Statement and Ongoing Investigation
Lady Lori Helicopters expressed deep sadness over the incident. The company said: "We are deeply saddened to confirm that one of our aircraft was involved in an accident on the morning of 19 August 2026 near Kirish, close to Mt Ololokwe in Samburu County. Our deepest sympathies are with the guests, crew, their families and loved ones, and all those affected by this tragic accident."
The company added that the cause of the crash had not been determined and that it was cooperating fully with the relevant authorities. "Out of respect for those involved and their families, we will not provide further details at this time," the company said. The KCAA extended its condolences to the families of the deceased. Mount Ololokwe is a popular tourist destination in Samburu County, known for its distinctive rock formations and diverse wildlife.
