Officials Search for Couple and Grandchildren After Plane Vanishes Flying From Bahamas to Miami

Plane Vanishes on Bahamas to Miami Flight

Authorities are searching for four people after a small aircraft disappeared while traveling from the Bahamas toward South Florida, triggering a search and rescue operation in waters near Andros Island. The aircraft was carrying an elderly couple and their two grandchildren when it disappeared during the flight to the Miami area. The plane had departed Great Harbour Cay in the Berry Islands and was headed toward Miami Executive Airport, according to authorities. Officials said air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft while it was traveling near Andros Island. A report was later received that the plane may have gone down in waters near Red Bays in North Andros. The U.S. Coast Guard joined Bahamian authorities in the search as crews worked to determine the aircraft’s location and locate the four people believed to have been aboard.

Family Members Among Those Missing

The people aboard the aircraft were identified as 80 year old Mario Lamar, his 79 year old wife, Lili Lamar, and their grandchildren, 28 year old Sofia Sosa and 22 year old Christian Sosa. Mario Lamar was reportedly piloting the aircraft. Relatives described him as an experienced pilot who had been flying for decades. The family had spent the Labor Day weekend at their home in Great Harbour Cay before beginning their return trip to South Florida. Relatives became increasingly concerned when the family failed to arrive as expected and communication stopped.

Search Complicated by Weather

Search crews have been working in the area where authorities believe the aircraft may have gone down. The U.S. Coast Guard deployed an aircraft to assist Bahamian authorities with the operation. Weather conditions have complicated the search, with authorities reporting difficult conditions in the area. Investigators have not yet determined what caused the aircraft to disappear. Officials have not ruled out any potential explanation as the search continues.

Family Holds Out Hope

Relatives have appealed to anyone in the area who may be able to provide information or assist with the search. The family has urged boaters and pilots in the surrounding area to remain alert for any possible signs of the missing aircraft or the people aboard. A relative involved in the search reportedly located the body of one person believed to have been aboard the plane. Authorities had not immediately publicly confirmed the person’s identity. The discovery has added urgency to the continuing search as crews work to locate the aircraft and determine what happened during the flight.

Investigation Continues

Authorities are continuing to investigate the disappearance while search and rescue efforts remain underway. The cause of the incident remains unknown, and officials have not announced whether mechanical problems, weather or another factor may have contributed to the aircraft’s disappearance. The search remains active as authorities and the family await additional information about the missing flight and the people aboard.