12 DEAD IN HONDURAS PLANE CRASH OFF ROATÁN ISLAND—MUSICIAN AURELIO MARTINEZ AMONG VICTIMS

At least 12 people have died after a small plane crashed into the Caribbean Sea shortly after takeoff from the Honduran island of Roatan.

The crash occurred on Monday, with the aircraft reportedly making a sharp turn to the right of the runway before plunging into the water. Five survivors were rescued, while authorities continue to investigate the cause of the accident.

A fisherman in the area stated that he narrowly avoided being struck by the falling aircraft. Among those killed was well-known Honduran musician Aurelio Martinez. Emergency responders and aviation officials are assessing the situation and working to determine the factors leading to the crash.

In Roatan, Bay Islands, the deceased from the accident are beginning to be identified:

Singer Aurelio Martínez Suazo, pilot Luis Araya and co-pilot Fco Lagos, flight attendant Saricsa Rivera, and a family of four died.