/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/eluniverso/LNFWK3NJLRG7NCFV2VAMRUJ3ZA.jpeg "Arturo Félix, on the plane crash in Pastaza: ‘It was a helicopter that even the president used, it was in very good condition’ | Ecuador | News")
Secretary of Public Administration Arturo Félix has confirmed that investigations are ongoing into the tragic plane accident in Pastaza that claimed the lives of eight individuals. The accident, which occurred last Friday, resulted in the deaths of five soldiers and three civilians, including officials from the Risk Secretariat. The group was en route to deliver humanitarian aid to flood-affected residents in the Pakayaku community when the accident occurred.
During a visit to Machala on Saturday, Félix expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and emphasized the solidarity of the government during this difficult time. He reassured the public that the helicopter involved in the accident was in good condition and had been previously used by high-ranking officials.
Efforts are currently underway to retrieve the bodies of those who perished in the accident, but harsh weather conditions have posed challenges to the rescue operation. A heliport is being constructed in the area to facilitate the recovery efforts.
The victims of the crash have been identified as pilots Andrés Sierra Martínez and Jaime Cordones Ortega, flight engineer Leonardo Gutiérrez, mechanics Cristian Morales and Édgar Montesdeoca, and passengers Katya Aragón, Diego Ima, and Erik Reyes.
Once the bodies have been recovered, a funeral ceremony will be planned for the deceased. The community continues to mourn the loss of these individuals who dedicated their lives to serving others.