The tragic plane crash near the Caribbean island of Roatán, Honduras, on March 18, 2025, claimed the lives of 12 individuals, including the beloved musician Aurelio Martínez Suazo. The Lanhsa Airlines flight went down shortly after takeoff, reportedly due to adverse weather conditions and poor visibility. Among the victims were prominent figures in music and culture; however, Martínez's death resonates deeply within the Garifuna community and beyond. His contributions as a cultural ambassador and his role as a former congressman highlight his significance not only in music but also in political representation for Afro-Hondurans.
The aircraft "made a sharp turn to the right of the runway and fell into the water," civil aviation official Carlos Padilla said.
"The plane almost fell on us. I was fishing," a fisherman, whose name was not given, told HCH television.
The plane carried 17 passengers and crew, five of whom were rescued and hospitalized.
In a statement on social media, the government expressed "solidarity" with the families of the victims.
"The Government of Honduras deeply regrets the tragic accident in Roatán and joins in the national mourning," it added.
Following the crash, Honduran President Xiomara Castro "immediately activated" the country's emergency committee, comprised of all emergency services including the military, police, fire department, Red Cross and the Ministry of Health.
Writing on X, she said the committee team was "working tirelessly" to provide assistance.
"May God protect people's lives," Castro added.
The Jetstream 42 plane had “an apparent mechanical failure at the time of takeoff” and lost its course, the Honduran police said in a statement. “The aircraft, which was transporting 15 passengers, two pilots, and a flight attendant, lost power in its engines and fell into the sea approximately one kilometer from the airstrip,” it added
Martínez was celebrated for his punta rock music that encapsulated Garifuna heritage and identity. As described by family members, he was regarded as "the family's pillar," emphasizing his supportive role within both personal and community contexts. The crash has prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow musicians alike who recognize Martínez's impact on cultural preservation. Emergency services have been activated to assist survivors while investigations into the cause of this tragedy continue .
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