Ten people have died after a small plane crashed in the Bahamas, turning the country's Independence Day celebrations into a national tragedy.
Videos by Wide Open Country
The crash occurred on Friday, July 10, claiming the lives of all nine passengers and the pilot aboard the aircraft.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority of the Bahamas (AAIA) identified the plane as a Cessna 402 with the registration C6-FLX.
Authorities have launched an investigation into what caused the fatal crash.
Plane Crash Kills 10 in Bahamas
According to reports, the aircraft had departed Lynden Pindling International Airport and was en route to San Andros Airport.
The AAIA said the plane "encountered difficulties and crashed into bushes before landing" before reaching its destination.
"Response efforts are currently underway, with the Royal Bahamas Police Force, Airport Authority, and emergency medical personnel responding to the accident site," the AAIA said in a statement.
"The AAIA extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by this tragic accident and keeps all those impacted in its thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
Initial reports suggested there were seven people on board.
However, Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis later confirmed that 10 people were on the flight and that all had died.
Investigation Continues Into Fatal Crash
Speaking at a press conference, Davis said a day meant for celebration had instead become "a day of mourning."
Early reports indicate that one person may have survived the crash before later succumbing to their injuries.
"At this stage, the facts are still being established, and the relevant authorities are working to determine exactly what occurred," Davis said on social media.
"This is a painful moment. The families affected deserve compassion, privacy, and support as the investigation proceeds."
"The Government will continue to receive updates from the Commissioner of Police and other relevant agencies, and the public will be informed as more confirmed information becomes available."
Videos from the crash scene have since spread across social media. The footage showing the wreckage has received hundreds of thousands of views on X.
Authorities said Flamingo Air operated the flight. In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Bahamian government temporarily grounded the airline's flights while investigators work to determine the cause of the crash.
Who writes this stuff? They repeatedly say there were two passengers aboard. No, you say there were only two aboard---- the pilot and one passenger--- and both died in the crash. Learn some high school English.
The point is a plane crashed and 2 died.
How to make a sensational story out of a tragic but fairly common event, similar to: "Man killed in automobile accident in California." Save that headline, you'll need it tomorrow, and the next day, and the next day, etc., etc.
Pilot error, 95% of small plane crashes. I am a pilot. I know.
The number was not in question. Pointless reply.