Several killed in small plane crash in the Bahamas, officials say

Multiple people have died after a small plane crashed in the Bahamas on Friday, prompting the government to temporarily suspend flights operated by Flamingo Air. The incident occurred in North Andros, an island located west of the capital, Nassau.

Officials have not yet released the identities or conditions of those aboard the Cessna 402 aircraft. However, a flight manifest obtained by CBS News indicates that ten people were scheduled to be on the flight, which departed from Nassau. Sources suggest that members of the musical group 'Da Pond Band' were among the passengers.

Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis confirmed the fatalities, stating that an individual initially reported as a survivor later died from their injuries. He expressed deep sorrow, noting that the crash occurred during the nation's 53rd independence anniversary celebrations, turning a day of festivity into one of mourning.

The Bahamian Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority is investigating the cause of the crash. The Ministry of Energy, Utilities and Aviation grounded Flamingo Air's operator certificate as a safety precaution, citing two separate incidents involving the airline on Friday. The other incident involved a Flamingo Air plane that caught fire after landing in Nassau, following a reported issue en route to Mayaguana.

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We gather beneath a cloud of great sorrow. It has become a day of mourning. ... To every family that has received the devastating news, that someone they love will not be coming home, we offer our deepest condolences.