simply amazing, always for you.
Roatán, Honduras – A small passenger aircraft crashed into the Caribbean Sea shortly after takeoff from the Honduran island of Roatán on Monday evening, killing at least 12 people, including celebrated Garifuna musician Aurelio Martínez.
The twin-engine Jetstream 41, operated by Lanhsa Airlines, took off from Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport at approximately 6:18 p.m on Monday. local time, bound for La Ceiba on the Honduran mainland. Moments after departure, the aircraft reportedly veered sharply to the right and plunged into the sea, about half a mile off the coast.
Authorities confirmed that five survivors were rescued by local fishermen, emergency responders, and the Honduran Armed Forces. One person remains missing as search and recovery efforts continue. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Honduran Civil Aeronautics Agency, though officials have ruled out poor weather as a factor.
Remembering Aurelio Martínez
Martínez, 55, was a highly respected figure in Garifuna music, a genre blending West African, Indigenous, and Caribbean influences. Born in northern Honduras, he began his career performing in Latin jazz ensembles before forming the group Lita Ariran. His collaboration with Belizean musician Andy Palacio helped bring Garifuna music to international recognition.
As a solo artist, Martínez released several critically acclaimed albums, including Garifuna Soul and Laru Beya. Beyond music, he was also a dedicated cultural ambassador and activist, becoming the first Afro-Honduran member of the National Congress of Honduras, where he worked to preserve and promote Garifuna heritage.
The tragic loss of Martínez has sent shockwaves through Honduras and the international music community. Tributes are pouring in from fellow musicians and cultural leaders who recognize his lasting impact on the preservation of Garifuna identity.
The Honduran government has pledged a thorough investigation into the crash, while families of the victims await further updates.