Heroic Aid Workers Tragically Lost in Helicopter Crash in Pastaza, Ecuador

Five brave soldiers and three civilians from the Risk Management Secretariat, along with two pilots, a mechanic, and an engineer from the Ministry of Defense, tragically lost their lives today in Pastaza, Ecuador. The helicopter they were traveling in crashed while delivering humanitarian aid to remote communities of the Waorani indigenous people.

The area where the helicopter crashed is currently experiencing severe flooding due to rising rivers. The mayor of Pastaza, Andrew the Great, confirmed the devastating news and expressed that the community is mourning the sacrifices made by those who perished in the crash.

The Ministry of Defense launched a search operation after learning about the aircraft’s disappearance and eventually confirmed the tragic outcome. Among those who lost their lives were Major Andrés Octavio Sierra and Lieutenant Jaime Fernando Cordones, Sergeant Leonardo Gutiérrez, two mechanics Corporals Christian Morales and Edgar Montesdeoca, Engineer Katya Aragón from the Risk Management Secretariat, municipal technician Erick Reyes, and Waorani leader Diego Ima.

Due to adverse weather conditions in the region, it will not be possible to recover their bodies until Saturday morning. President Daniel Noboa expressed his deep sorrow over this tragic incident while recognizing the heroic efforts of these soldiers and public servants who were providing humanitarian aid in Pastaza. The community is left grieving for these individuals who selflessly dedicated themselves to helping others.