Kenya Helicopter Crash Kills Seven, Including Ecuador Intelligence Chief

A safari helicopter crashed in Kenya on Wednesday, killing all seven people on board, including six passengers and the pilot. The Eurocopter EC130 B4 went down at 9:13 a.m. after taking off from the Loisaba wildlife reserve. The aircraft was en route to the Ewaso Nyiro area in Samburu County, north of Nairobi.

Authorities from Kenya's Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the crash and stated an investigation into its cause is underway. Social media footage showed the helicopter's smoking wreckage scattered in a densely wooded area.

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The US Embassy is in touch with local authorities and is providing consular assistance. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones on their loss.

Among the victims were five US citizens, according to the US State Department, which is providing consular assistance to the families. Ecuador's intelligence chief, Michele Sensi-Contugi, and his wife, who was also a US citizen, were among the passengers. Sensi-Contugi, a former businessman, was a close associate of Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa.

Kenya's tourism sector has seen an increase in helicopter tours to remote locations. However, this rise has coincided with a growing frequency of helicopter crashes. In February, another helicopter accident claimed the lives of six people, including a parliamentarian.

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In this moment of deep sorrow, the government extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and close associates.