A helicopter crash in central Kenya has killed seven people, including Ecuador’s intelligence chief and five American nationals. The incident occurred near Mt Ololokwe in Samburu County, according to local reports. The victims include the Ecuadorian official, Michele Sensi-Contugi, and four other Americans, as well as the pilot of the locally chartered flight. The crash happened around 9:13 am, officials confirmed.
Ecuador has declared three days of national mourning in response to the loss of its intelligence chief. The country’s flag will fly at half mast as a mark of respect. The U.S. Embassy in Kenya has issued a statement expressing condolences to the families of the American victims. Among the deceased was a Telemundo executive, according to one report.
The helicopter, chartered for a tourist flight, crashed in a remote area, raising questions about the circumstances of the accident. Emergency services responded quickly but were unable to save any of the passengers. Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.
The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of condolences from both Kenyan and international officials. The incident highlights the risks associated with aerial tourism in the region.
