Caribbean Plane Crash Takes the Lives of At Least 12, Including Renowned Musician Aurelio Martinez – One America News Network
OAN Staff James Meyers
8:32 AM – Tuesday, March 18, 2025
At least 12 individuals have lost their lives in a plane crash that occurred off the coast of a Caribbean island, including a well-known Honduran musician who transitioned into politics.
Advertisement
Aurelio Martinez, an acclaimed figure in the Honduran Garifuna music scene during the 1990s, was one of the victims in the plane crash that took place shortly after the aircraft departed from Roatan, heading towards La Ceiba on the mainland, on Monday night.
Authorities have stated that the plane experienced an “apparent mechanical failure” before crashing into the sea just half a mile from the coast of the island.
It “made a sharp turn to the right of the runway and fell into the water,” explained Carlos Padilla, a civil aviation official.
“The plane nearly landed on us. I was fishing,” recounted a fisherman, who remained unnamed, in an interview with HCH television.
According to authorities, Aerolinea Lanhsa Flight 018 was carrying 15 passengers, along with two pilots and a flight attendant.
The fire department confirmed that 12 people had been confirmed dead following the crash, with five others successfully rescued.
Meanwhile, one individual remains unaccounted for, as reported by police.
Footage circulating on social media showcased rescue workers carrying a surviving individual on a stretcher to the shore.
Martinez, recognized as a celebrated musician, was the founder of the Lita Ariran ensemble, which was among the first Garifuna groups to feature on an internationally distributed album.
“Martinez’s exceptional musicianship and heartfelt performances made him a staple of the La Cieba music scene, where he was particularly admired for his contributions to punta rock, a high-energy, Garifuna-rooted pop genre that became immensely popular in Central America during the 1990s,” stated the Kennedy Center.
Additionally, Martinez held the position of congressman in Honduras from 2006 to 2010, being the first Black congress member.
Honduran President Xiomara Castro de Zelaya announced that she had promptly mobilized rescuers and the Red Cross following the incident.
“May God protect lives,” she expressed.
Stay informed! Get breaking news alerts delivered straight to your inbox for free. Subscribe here. https://www.oann.com/alerts
Advertisements below
