The recent crash of a Mexican Navy medical plane over Galveston Bay has resulted in the tragic loss of five lives. The aircraft, on a mission to transport a burn patient, took off from Mexico before encountering difficulties and crashing into the bay.
Details of the Incident
The Mexican Navy’s King Air ANX 1209 aircraft was conducting a humanitarian operation aligned with the Michou and Mau Foundation. It was carrying eight individuals, including four military personnel and four civilians. According to the Navy, the mission was a part of “Plan Marina,” aimed at specialized medical transportation.
Casualties and Survivors
Among the eight individuals on board, five confirmed fatalities have been reported:
- Victims:
- Lieutenant A.N. P.A. Víctor Rafael Pérez Hernández
- Lieutenant S.S.N. Juan Iván Zaragoza Flores
- Marinero A.N. E. Av. Guadalupe Flores Barranco
- Federico Efraín Ramírez Cruz (Patient)
- Juan Alfonso Adame González (Doctor)
- Missing (presumed deceased):
- Lieutenant A.N. P.A. Luis Enrique Castillo Terrones
- Survivors:
- Julia Aracelis Cruz Vera (Companion)
- Miriam de Jesús Rosas Mancilla (Nurse)
Emergency Response
On Monday afternoon, multiple agencies sprang into action following the crash. The U.S. Coast Guard, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office were among those who responded promptly to the scene.
A heavy presence of law enforcement and first responders was noted near the causeway bridge in Galveston as search and recovery efforts began. The visibility was severely compromised due to thick fog, complicating the response efforts.
The Mexican Navy’s announcement came later that same day, shedding light on the situation amidst ongoing recovery operations.
Conclusion
This incident highlights the ongoing risks involved in medical transport operations, particularly under challenging environmental conditions. The families of those affected are now left in mourning as investigations into the crash continue.
