What To Know
- José Suárez, a prominent Telemundo executive, was among four Americans and seven total people killed in a helicopter crash in northern Kenya near Mount Ololokwe.
- Suárez had a distinguished career spanning over 20 years with NBCUniversal.
- The crash, involving a Lady Lori Kenya helicopter, is under investigation.
Four Americans were among seven people killed in a helicopter crash in the foothills of northern Kenya on Wednesday, including José Suárez, a longtime Telemundo executive who served as president and general manager of several of the network’s Florida stations. He was 55.
The U.S. State Department confirmed the deaths in a statement to NBC News on Wednesday, August 19. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones on their loss,” a spokesperson told the outlet.
NBCUniversal News Group Chairman Cesar Conde confirmed Suárez’s death in a message to employees. Suárez spent more than 20 years with NBCUniversal, holding leadership roles at stations in San Antonio, Sacramento, Fresno, Salt Lake City, and Las Vegas before overseeing multiple Telemundo-owned stations in Florida. Before joining NBCUniversal and Telemundo, Suárez worked as a reporter and anchor for media outlets in Florida, Ohio, and Texas.
“José was an exceptional colleague and mentor to many. He cared deeply about his teams, the communities they served, and the essential role our stations play in people’s lives,” read a statement from NBCUniversal to NBC News. “He brought energy, humor, warmth, and a strong sense of purpose to his work, and his impact was felt far beyond the stations he led.”
The charter helicopter crashed near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County around 9:13 a.m. local time. The aircraft, operated by the helicopter company Lady Lori Kenya, was carrying six passengers and a pilot from Suyian Conservancy to Mount Ololokwe. Kenyan authorities are investigating the cause of the crash.
Lady Lori Kenya confirmed that its aircraft was involved. In a statement on Instagram, the company wrote: “Our deepest sympathies are with the guests, crew, their families and loved ones, and all those affected by this tragic accident.”
“The cause of the accident has not yet been determined and is subject to investigation by the relevant authorities,” the statement continued. “Lady Lori Helicopters is cooperating fully with the authorities, and further information will be communicated when appropriate.”