Seven confirmed dead after aircraft crashes in central Mexico

A small private aircraft crashed in central Mexico on December 15 while attempting an emergency landing, leaving at least seven people dead, according to Adrián Hernández, Civil Protection Coordinator for Mexico State, quoted by foreign media.

The crash occurred in San Mateo Atenco, an industrial district located about three miles from Toluca airport and roughly 31 miles west of Mexico City. Authorities said the plane had departed from the coastal city of Acapulco, on Mexico’s Pacific shoreline.

Hernández stated that the aircraft had been carrying eight passengers and two crew members. However, several hours after the incident, emergency teams had recovered only seven bodies, with efforts continuing at the site.

Preliminary information indicates that the pilot attempted to land on a nearby soccer field. Instead, the plane struck the metal roof of an adjacent warehouse, triggering a major fire.

Cristóbal Castañeda, Secretary of Security for the State of Mexico, said the warehouse contained fuel and gas tanks, prompting authorities to evacuate the surrounding area as a safety precaution.

San Mateo Atenco Mayor Ana Muñiz told local television that approximately 130 people were evacuated due to the fire.

Eyewitnesses described dramatic moments leading up to the crash. Local resident Octavio Contreras said the plane appeared to spin uncontrollably before impact. “It spun around like when a fan breaks loose,” he said. “Then we heard the explosion, the truck even moved, and then we saw smoke coming out.”

Later on Monday, Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office announced that it had opened an investigation into the cause of the crash.

By Tamilla Hasanova