Minister of National Security and Legal Affairs, Rayburn Blackmoore, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to recovering the remaining two victims of the fatal Cessna 172 crash that occurred on January 26, 2025. Speaking during a recent press briefing, Blackmoore highlighted the complexities and dangers involved in the recovery operation, stressing the importance of balancing recovery efforts with the safety of rescue personnel.
The aircraft, which departed from Douglas-Charles Airport en route to Martinique, crashed in the rugged landscape of La Plaine. While two bodies have been successfully recovered, the remaining victims are trapped within and beneath the wreckage, posing significant risks to recovery teams due to the plane’s precarious position.
Blackmoore acknowledged the crucial role of French search and rescue experts in supporting Dominica’s efforts. “We have been in constant contact with the French ambassador and officials since day one,” he stated, noting that specialized teams from Martinique have been instrumental in both identifying the bodies and assessing recovery options. A strategy involving technical expertise is being developed to safely retrieve the remaining victims without endangering rescue personnel.
Deputy Chief of Police Lincoln Corbette provided further details, confirming that the two recovered bodies—a male and a female—were transported to Gentle Rest Funeral Home after being pronounced dead at the scene. However, attempts to recover the other two bodies have been hampered by the unstable terrain.
The aircraft is holding on to fragile vegetation. Any movement could cause it to slip further down the mountain, making the operation extremely dangerous.
Lincoln Corbette, Deputy Chief of Police
Authorities considered lowering the wreckage to a more stable area, but Blackmoore warned that such an intervention carries substantial risks. “The plane is on a mountaintop. If it’s pushed too hard, it could descend into a precipice. We cannot jeopardize the lives of our rescue teams,” he emphasized.
The Dominica Air and Sea Ports Authority (DASPA) reported that the aircraft lost communication around 3:46 p.m. on January 26. The wreckage was located the following day with the help of aerial surveillance provided by French authorities, whose helicopter and specialized personnel were critical in reaching the crash site.
Blackmoore stressed that while recovery efforts are ongoing, the government’s approach remains focused on ensuring the safety of all involved. “We are fully committed to working with our French partners to recover the remaining victims and bring closure to their families,” he concluded.
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