Extensive damage: Video shows aftermath of plane crash that killed 7
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
- A Eurocopter EC130 B4 helicopter registered as 5Y-GYM crashed at Lolokwe Mountain in Samburu county on August 19, 2026
- KCAA confirmed the aircraft was flying between Loisaba and Ewasonyiro when the accident occurred at approximately 9.13am
- The Authority extended condolences to the families of those on board, with the aircraft destroyed by the crash and a subsequent fire
A police report has confirmed that all seven people aboard a helicopter that crashed at Lolokwe Mountain in Samburu county on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, lost their lives in the accident.
The aircraft, a Eurocopter EC130 B4 registered as 5Y-GYM, went down at approximately 9.13am while operating a flight from Loisaba to Ewasonyiro.
Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) issued a formal press statement through its Corporate Communication Department confirming the crash and the fatalities, marking the first official acknowledgement that the incident had resulted in deaths.
The aircraft sustained extensive damage from both the impact and a subsequent fire. Footage from the scene shows scorched earth, blackened rocks, and burnt debris scattered across the forested terrain around the crash site.
Investigation into Samburu plane crash underway
The Ministry of Roads and Transport's Air Accident Investigation Department has taken charge of the investigation into the cause of the crash, with KCAA stating it is actively coordinating with relevant agencies throughout the process.
In its statement, KCAA extended its "deepest condolences to the families of the victims."
Lolokwe Mountain, also known as Ol Lolokwe, is a flat-topped peak in the Samburu region and a recognised destination for visitors to northern Kenya.
Names of 7 plane crash victims
The seven people who died have been identified as Josh Outran, who served as the pilot, along with passengers Roger Duarte, Adam Navaty, Stephen Vascanknez, Henry Parra, Michael Contugi, and Suian Suarez.
Authorities are yet to establish their nationalities.
The aircraft was extensively destroyed by both the impact and a fire that broke out following the crash.
Recovery efforts at the site were carried out by local morans, Kenya Red Cross personnel, and other first responders, who faced difficult conditions navigating the rugged terrain surrounding Lolokwe Mountain.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.