Three Colombian women died in a helicopter crash in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, during a family trip to celebrate a teenager’s 15th birthday, according to local media reports. The victims were Rocio Cubillos, 59; Wendy Manrique, 37; and Sofia Murillo, 17. The accident occurred in the Vista Chinesa area of the Alto da Boa Vista neighborhood on August 8, 2026, as the helicopter was conducting a panoramic flight with tourists, according to one news outlet.
Victor Manrique, a relative of the victims, shared a heartfelt farewell on social media hours after the tragedy, expressing his grief over losing his mother, sister, and niece. The incident has sparked an emotional response from the local community and raised concerns about safety regulations for tourist flights.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, which has left many questioning the oversight in aerial tourism. The victims’ families have not yet commented publicly, but the event has drawn widespread attention across Colombian and Brazilian media.
The tragedy highlights the risks associated with recreational helicopter tours and has prompted calls for stricter safety measures. (laopinion.co)
