The U.S. Coast Guard joined the search for a missing aircraft carrying four family members that disappeared near the Bahamas while en route to Florida. The plane was reported down about 15 miles off Andros Island, according to a Coast Guard spokesperson, who said the Royal Bahamian Defense Force had requested assistance.
The victims were identified as pilot Mario Lamar, 80, his wife Lili Lamar, 79, and two grandchildren, 28-year-old Sofia Sosa and 22-year-old Christian Sosa. An NBC affiliate reported that all four were found dead.
In a statement, the family said the search and recovery mission was conducted alongside relatives and civilians who responded to their call for help. The Coast Guard said the investigation is ongoing, and rescue efforts were temporarily suspended in the morning due to bad weather.
Bahamian authorities believe the plane initially crash-landed off the coast of Red Bays, North Andros, roughly 160 miles from Miami. Police on Andros are coordinating efforts to locate the aircraft, according to the Associated Press.
The incident adds to a string of recent aviation tragedies, including a deadly cargo plane crash at Miami International Airport that killed five people. That crash and this one highlight the risks faced by small aircraft and cargo operations in the region.
The Coast Guard and Bahamian authorities have not yet determined the cause of the crash. They are expected to release more details as the investigation proceeds. The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.
This is a developing story. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
