Fire complicates rescue of bodies after helicopter crash in Kenya

Emergency and rescue teams are facing significant challenges in recovering the bodies of seven individuals killed in a helicopter crash in Kenya's Samburu County. The recovery operation, ongoing since Wednesday, August 19, 2026, is complicated by the rugged terrain and a persistent fire at the crash site.

The victims include Ecuadorian official Michele Sensi-Contugi, his wife Stephany Hollihan, the pilot, and six tourists. The helicopter, an Eurocopter EC130 B4, crashed at approximately 09:13 local time while en route from Loisaba conservation area to Ewaso Nyiro. The aircraft went down in a remote, difficult-to-access location near the foothills of Mount Ololokwe.

The Kenya Red Cross has deployed additional teams to reinforce the ongoing recovery efforts, working in conjunction with other institutions. Access to the crash site remains a primary obstacle, exacerbated by the active fire that continues to burn in the vicinity. The organization confirmed that response actions are continuing and updates will be provided.

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the accident, and the Department of Air Accident Investigation within the Ministry of Roads and Transport has taken charge of the investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Michele Sensi-Contugi was a close associate of Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa, serving as the director-general of the National Intelligence Center (CNI). His death, along with his wife's, represents a significant loss for the government, given his trusted position and prior roles, including heading the Ministry of Government. Before his government service, Sensi-Contugi was a businessman in Guayaquil and a contributor to Noboa's election campaign.