Tragedy Strikes Twice: Military Helicopter Crash Kills 14 Earthquake Survivors in Mexico

What began as a night of uncertainty for survivors of a powerful earthquake in southern Mexico turned into a nightmare when a military helicopter crashed directly into a group of civilians seeking safety in an open field.

The devastating incident unfolded late Friday in the town of Jamiltepec, Oaxaca, just 20 miles from the earthquake’s epicenter. As families gathered outside their damaged homes—too frightened by aftershocks to sleep indoors—a military Blackhawk helicopter carrying high-level officials lost control while attempting to land.

Within seconds, the aircraft spiraled out of control and slammed into several parked vehicles that were being used as makeshift shelters by survivors.

According to the Oaxaca state prosecutor’s office, 14 people on the ground were killed, including at least three children, and 21 others were injured. It’s one of the deadliest post-disaster tragedies in recent memory, compounding the trauma already faced by the earthquake-stricken region.

Aboard the helicopter were Mexico’s Interior Secretary Alfonso Navarrete and Oaxaca Governor Alejandro Murat, along with other federal officials. All of them survived the crash with only minor injuries.

Navarrete, speaking to Televisa News shortly after the crash, stated that the pilot lost control approximately 100 feet above the ground while preparing to land. “It is deeply regrettable that this happened,” he said, emphasizing that the intention was to assess earthquake damage and aid those affected. “Thankfully, there was no further loss of life aboard the aircraft.”

On Saturday, Secretary of National Defense Salvador Cienfuegos Zepeda traveled to Jamiltepec to personally offer condolences and take accountability on behalf of the military.

“This tragic incident occurred because we were trying to help,” Zepeda said. “But we fully accept responsibility for what has happened here.” He added that the government would provide financial and logistical support to families affected by both the earthquake and the crash, including rebuilding homes and offering counseling.

As grief grips the already shaken community, many are asking how such a tragic chain of events could occur. Investigations are now underway to determine the exact cause of the crash and whether proper landing protocols were followed.

For now, the people of Jamiltepec are left mourning not only the effects of a natural disaster—but also the unimaginable heartbreak brought by what should have been a mission of aid and compassion.