Twelve dead in Honduras plane crash off Roatán

A horrific plane crash off the coast of Roatán, Honduras, on March 17 resulted in the deaths of at least 12 people, including renowned musician and politician Aurelio Martinez. The Jetstream aircraft, operated by Lanhsa Airlines, was reportedly carrying 17 individuals when it encountered an apparent mechanical failure shortly after takeoff en route to La Ceiba. Witnesses described the plane making a sharp turn before plunging into the sea, narrowly missing a fisherman. Five survivors were rescued, with recovery efforts continuing for the remaining bodies. Honduran President Xiomara Castro has activated an emergency response team to assist in the aftermath of the tragedy. Investigations into the cause of the crash are currently underway as the community mourns the loss of Martinez, a prominent figure in the Garifuna music scene.