New details show occupants of ill-fated chopper that crashed in Samburu
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
- A helicopter registration 5Y-GYM, owned by Lady Lori, crashed at the base of Mt Ololokwe in Kirish, Samburu County
- Five bodies were spotted at the crash site, with victims reportedly burnt beyond recognition after the chopper went up in flames
- Seven people were allegedly on board the Loisaba-based helicopter, raising fears the remaining two also perished
New details now confirm that seven tourists were reportedly aboard a helicopter that crashed at the foot of Mt Ololokwe in Kirish, Samburu County, with five bodies already spotted at the wreckage site as recovery efforts continue.
The ill-fated aircraft, registered as 5Y-GYM and owned by Lady Lori, was a Loisaba-based chopper whose occupants were allegedly attempting to land on the iconic mountain when the crash occurred.
Bodies Found Burnt at the Crash Site
According to The Samburu Flash, five bodies have been seen at the base of the mountain, with the victims reportedly burnt beyond recognition. Aerial drone footage circulating online shows the helicopter completely gutted by fire, while images captured from the ground by a local moran reveal the extent of the destruction to the aircraft's frame.
With seven people reportedly on board, fears are mounting that the two individuals not yet accounted for may also have lost their lives in the incident. The official casualty toll had not been confirmed at the time of reporting, as search and recovery operations were still under way.
Kenyans Mourn as Full Picture Emerges
Fresh details of the tragedy have shaken Kenyans, who have taken to social media to mourn the victims. The crash has drawn widespread grief, particularly given the group's nature as tourists visiting one of Samburu's most recognisable natural landmarks.
Mt Ololokwe, a flat-topped sandstone mountain sacred to the Samburu people, is a popular destination for visitors to the county and has in recent years attracted tourists arriving by air. Authorities are yet to release a full statement on the circumstances that led to the crash or the identities of those on board.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.