SAMBURU, Kenya — Ecuador has declared three days of national mourning following the death of the country’s intelligence chief, Michele Sensi-Contugi, and his wife in a helicopter crash in Kenya’s Samburu County.
President Daniel Noboa declared the mourning period for August 20, 21 and 22, 2026, with national flags ordered to fly at half-staff on public buildings across Ecuador.
The decision was formalised through Executive Decree No. 476 following the death of Sensi-Contugi, Director General of Ecuador’s National Intelligence Centre, and his wife, Stephany Maria Hollihan Vasconez de Sensi-Contugi.
The aircraft was travelling from the Loisaba area towards Ewasonyiro when the accident occurred.
Ecuador honours intelligence chief
Ecuador’s government described Sensi-Contugi as a senior public servant whose career spanned the public and private sectors.
“His commitment, leadership, and vocation marked a distinguished career in the public and private sectors, always guided by his dedication and commitment to Ecuador,” the government said.
A state funeral is also being organised in his honour.
The deaths have triggered an international response as authorities in Kenya and the countries of the victims work to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Among the other victims was reportedly José Suarez, president and station manager of Telemundo, a Florida-based Spanish-language television network owned by NBCUniversal.
Telemundo confirmed his death, describing the incident as a devastating loss for his family, colleagues and friends.
“The suddenness and circumstances of José’s death make this loss especially difficult to assimilate,” the network said.
The US Embassy in Nairobi also confirmed that it was in contact with Kenyan authorities and providing consular assistance to American nationals affected by the tragedy.
Kenya launches investigation
KCAA said the Air Accident Investigation Department under the Ministry of Roads and Transport was leading investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
“The Authority extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims following this tragic incident,” KCAA said.
The helicopter was operated by Lady Lori Flight Company, which said it was conducting a chartered flight carrying guests of &Beyond.
The company said the aircraft was operating from Suyian Conservancy to Ololokwe when the accident occurred.
“The cause of the accident has not yet been determined and is subject to investigation by the relevant authorities,” Lady Lori said, adding that it was cooperating fully with investigators.
Crash occurred near Mt Ololokwe
Mt Ololokwe is a prominent landmark in Samburu County known for its distinctive landscape and cultural significance.
According to a police report cited in the account of the incident, the helicopter was flying towards the summit of Mt Ololokwe before proceeding towards Ewasonyiro.
The exact circumstances that led to the crash remain unknown.
Investigators are expected to examine the aircraft, flight path, weather conditions, operational records and other evidence as they seek to establish what caused the accident.
International condolences
The crash has drawn condolences from Ecuador, the United States and other parties following the deaths of the passengers and crew.
For Ecuador, the death of Sensi-Contugi represents the loss of a senior national security official. The government said his career had left a lasting legacy in the country’s public service.
The tragedy has also renewed attention on aviation safety involving chartered tourist flights in Kenya, particularly in remote and mountainous areas where such operations form part of the country’s tourism sector.
