"Deepest sympathies": Owners of ill-fated helicopter provides crucial detials
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
- Lady Lori Helicopters broke its silence after one of its aircraft, registered 5Y-GYM, crashed near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County
- The Eurocopter EC130 B4 went down at around 9:13 a.m. on August 19, 2026, carrying guests of safari operator &Beyond
- Kenya's Air Accident Investigation Department launched a probe into the crash as recovery efforts faced challenges at the remote site
Lady Lori Helicopters has confirmed that all seven people aboard one of its charter helicopters died when the aircraft crashed near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County on the morning of August 19, 2026.
In an official statement released later that day, the company confirmed the helicopter, registered 5Y-GYM, was conducting a charter flight on behalf of safari operator &Beyond, transporting guests from Suyian Conservancy towards the Ololokwe area when it went down.
"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," the company said. "Our deepest sympathies are with the guests, crew, their families and loved ones, and all those affected by this tragic accident."
The company stated that the cause of the crash has not been determined and that investigators are leading the inquiry. Lady Lori Helicopters said it is 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 statement added.
KCAA Confirms Aircraft Type and Timing
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) identified the helicopter as a Eurocopter EC130 B4 and said it came down at approximately 9:13 a.m. local time.
The KCAA noted it was coordinating with relevant agencies and stakeholders in the aftermath of the accident. Kenya's Air Accident Investigation Department, operating under the Ministry of Roads and Transport, is heading the formal investigation.
The Kenya Red Cross reported that the crash site, situated in the rugged foothills of Mount Ololokwe, was difficult to reach, with drones deployed to assess conditions on the ground.
Witnesses in the area described thick black smoke and intense flames rising from the wreckage shortly after the aircraft went down.
Victims Named by Authorities
Police confirmed there were no survivors. Local authorities identified the pilot as Josh Outran. The six passengers named were Roger Duarte, Adam Navaty, Stephen Vasconquez, Henry Parra, Michael Contugi, and Suian Suarez, the only woman on board.
Among those who perished was Michele Sensi Contugi, described in reports as a prominent Italian-Ecuadorian businessman and politician who previously served as president of Ecuador's national intelligence agency.
He was reportedly travelling alongside his wife, identified in various reports as either Suian Suarez or Stephany Vasconez. The nationalities of all victims have yet to be officially confirmed.
Mount Ololokwe is a well-known tourist destination in Samburu County, recognised for its striking rock formations and abundant wildlife.
The KCAA extended its condolences to the families of those who died. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.