On March 30, 2025, a helicopter belonging to businessman José Abella García crashed in a sugarcane field between the communities of Monte Blanco and Puente Blanco in Fortín de las Flores, Veracruz. The incident occurred around 19:00 hours, prompting local residents to alert emergency services after hearing the loud impact of the aircraft.
According to reports, Abella was traveling with pilot Luis Miguel Olvera when the helicopter, registered under N511VA, experienced a mechanical failure that may have caused it to lose stability. Fortunately, both occupants survived the crash with minor injuries. Abella sustained a light blow to the head, while Olvera also reported minor injuries.
The emergency response was swift, with teams from Seguridad Pública, Protección Civil of Santa Ana Atzacan, and Fortín de las Flores deployed to the crash site. Upon arrival, they found the helicopter empty, leading to a search operation to ensure there were no additional victims. Fortunately, both Abella and Olvera managed to exit the helicopter on their own before help arrived.
Local authorities cordoned off the area near the Monte Blanco cemetery to facilitate rescue operations and ensure public safety. The crash site was described as difficult to access due to its location among sugarcane fields, complicating the recovery efforts.
In a statement, the Government of Veracruz confirmed that both individuals were in good health despite their minor injuries. "The two only occupants, one of them businessman José Abella García, communicated with the authorities and confirmed they survived the incident," the statement read.
Witnesses reported seeing the helicopter flying unusually low before the crash, followed by the sound of a loud explosion as it hit the ground. This has raised questions about the circumstances leading up to the accident.
The exact cause of the helicopter's failure remains under investigation. Experts in aviation will be working alongside local authorities to determine what factors contributed to the crash. Preliminary reports indicate that weather conditions were suitable for flying at the time, adding another layer of mystery to the incident.
Abella, who is also known for his ownership of the newspaper El Buen Tono, expressed gratitude towards the emergency services for their rapid response. He confirmed that the accident did not result in serious injuries, stating, "Fortunately, both my co-pilot and I are fine and have only sustained minor injuries."
The crash has drawn significant attention due to Abella's prominence in the business community and the unexpected nature of the incident. As investigations continue, more details about the mechanical failure and the events leading up to the crash are anticipated.
In the wake of the accident, local officials are reminding the community of the importance of reporting any unusual occurrences, particularly in aviation. The swift actions of the residents who reported the crash undoubtedly contributed to the timely response from emergency services.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are expected to release further information regarding the mechanical issues that led to the helicopter's crash. Until then, both Abella and Olvera are recovering, thankful for their survival and the support of the local community.
