A helicopter crashed at around 09:13 local time (06:13 GMT) on 19 August 2026 in Samburu County near Mount Ololokwe, northern Kenya, killing all seven people aboard [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. The aircraft, a Eurocopter EC130 B4 registered as 5Y-GYM and operated by Lady Lori Helicopters, was on a scenic flight from Loisaba Conservancy to the Ewaso Nyiro area [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6].

The occupants included one pilot and six passengers, all of whom died in the crash [2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. Among the victims were five U.S. citizens, including José Suárez, a prominent media executive who served as president and general manager of several Telemundo stations in Florida [2, 4, 6]. An Ecuadorian official, Michele Sensi-Contugi, director of Ecuador’s National Intelligence Center, and his wife Stephany Hollihan also perished [2, 4].

David Nkoroi, police commander for Samburu, confirmed, “All seven people onboard had died” [2]. The helicopter was carrying tourists on a safari trip organized by travel company &Beyond, highlighting the area's role as a popular northern Kenya tourist destination [2, 4, 5].

Rescue and recovery operations are ongoing with local aviation and emergency authorities involved [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and Air Accident Investigation Department have launched inquiries into the causes of the crash [1, 5].

The U.S. Embassy has expressed condolences and provided consular assistance following the deaths of its citizens. A spokesperson said, “The US Embassy is in touch with local authorities and is providing consular assistance. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones on their loss” [2]. Ecuador’s Transport Minister Roberto Luque mourned the loss of Sensi-Contugi and his wife, stating, “Today Michele and Stephany left us too soon. Thinking of their family, especially their children and parents” [4].

Lady Lori Helicopters issued a statement expressing sympathy for the victims, crew, and their families [6]. Authorities continue investigations to determine the cause of the flight accident near Mount Ololokwe.