Aurelio Martínez Dies in Airplane Accident in Honduras

Icon of Honduran music Aurelio Martínez loses his life.
Airplane accident near Juan Manuel Gálvez Airport.
Rescue and care for survivors by emergency teams.

The renowned Honduran singer-songwriter Aurelio Martínez has tragically passed away at the age of 55, confirmed by multiple sources after a fatal airplane accident on the island of Roatán.

Martínez, known for blending Garifuna culture with contemporary rhythms, was an emblematic figure in Central American music.

The incident occurred on Monday when a Lanhsa Airlines plane crashed into the sea shortly after taking off from Juan Manuel Gálvez Airport.

In addition to Martínez, 11 other people died in the crash, according to Honduran authorities, as reported by AP.

Aurelio Martínez dies in an airplane crash

Statement of Mourning from the Central Executive Council on the passing of renowned musician, singer-songwriter, and member of our party, Aurelio Martínez Suazo, former councilor of La Ceiba and the first Garífuna congressman in the country’s history from 2006 to 2010… pic.twitter.com/qcwhqphc2s

— Partido Liberal de Honduras (@PLHonduras) March 18, 2025

President Xiomara Castro de Zelaya confirmed that the accident took place approximately one kilometer from Roatán International Airport and that a mechanical failure is suspected as the possible cause, although investigations are ongoing.

Local fishermen played a crucial role in rescuing at least 10 survivors from the water, who were quickly transported to nearby hospitals.

Videos shared on social media showed the joint effort of police and civilians to bring survivors to solid ground, highlighting solidarity amidst the tragedy.

Aurelio Martínez not only left a musical legacy but also ventured into local politics, holding a seat in the National Congress of Honduras.

Airplane crash leaves several dead

The death toll rises to twelve in the plane crash that occurred on March 17 on the island of Roatán in the Caribbean of Honduras. Five people survived, and one remains missing. Among the deceased is singer-songwriter Aurelio Martínez Suazo, of the Garífuna ethnic group… pic.twitter.com/ao7rnvawka

— Periódico D’Una (@periodicodeuna) March 18, 2025

Aurelio Martínez’s departure has shocked the Garifuna community and the Honduran cultural scene in general, remembering him as a passionate ambassador of his cultural heritage.

Emergency teams such as the Emergency Operations Committee (COE), the Honduras Fire Department, COPECO, the National Police, the Red Cross, and the Health Secretary, SAN, were immediately activated after the accident to coordinate the rescue and medical care of those affected.

Public hospitals in San Pedro Sula and La Ceiba are prepared to receive the survivors while the corresponding investigations are carried out.

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