Difficult terrain, active fire hamper search and recovery efforts at Samburu helicopter crash site

Nairobi, Kenya - Rescue teams battling to reach the crash site of a helicopter in Samburu County face significant challenges due to rugged terrain and an ongoing fire, according to the Kenya Red Cross Society. The organization reported that accessing the crash location remains difficult, with the fire exacerbating the situation. The Red Cross has called in additional personnel from Isiolo to bolster their efforts and emphasized that more updates will follow as the operation advances.

The incident involves a Eurocopter EC130 B4, registration number 5Y-GYM, owned and operated by Lady Lori Kenya Ltd. The aircraft was en route from Loisaba to Ewasonyiro when it crashed at Lolokwe Mountain around 9:13 a.m. on Wednesday, according to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). The plane carried seven individuals when it went down.

The KCAA, leading the investigation, is collaborating with various agencies and stakeholders to ascertain the cause of the accident. The cause has not been determined, and investigators will examine the aircraft, flight conditions, weather, and other relevant factors.

While the helicopter, now designated as the Airbus H130, is typically outfitted for up to seven passengers and a pilot, the exact circumstances of the crash remain under investigation. The KCAA has extended its sympathies to the families impacted by the tragedy.