Tragic Plane Crash in Colombia Claims 15 Lives, Including Politicians

Post by : Mina Carter

On Wednesday, a horrific plane crash in northeast Colombia led to the tragic loss of all 15 individuals aboard, including a sitting local lawmaker and a congressional candidate fresh into the race for upcoming elections, as confirmed by officials.

The aircraft, identified as a Beechcraft 1900 twin-engine turboprop, took off from Cucuta around noon and was making a brief domestic flight to Ocana. Unfortunately, air traffic control lost contact with the vessel just 12 minutes into its journey.

Authorities reported that the aircraft's emergency locator beacon failed to activate, and no distress signals or emergency calls were received before communication was lost. An investigation has been launched to uncover the cause of this tragic event.

Among the victims was Diogenes Quintero, a local lawmaker, who was traveling with his political team. Also onboard was Carlos Salcedo, a congressional candidate gearing up for elections in March. The airline has confirmed their presence on the manifest.

Images from local media depict severe wreckage at the crash site, with the fuselage appearing extensively damaged and fragmented upon impact.

The crash occurred in a remote and mountainous area famous for coca cultivation and notorious for the presence of illegal armed groups, complicating rescue and emergency operations.

Rescue teams have been dispatched to the scene as authorities begin efforts to recover victims and gather evidence to shed light on the circumstances surrounding this devastating crash.

Jan. 29, 2026 10:44 a.m. 177

Global News