A small plane crashed into the picturesque tourist town of Gramado, Brazil, on Sunday, killing all 10 passengers on board and injuring more than a dozen people on the ground, Brazil’s Civil Defense Agency confirmed.
The plane struck the chimney of a house, collided with the second floor of a nearby building, and finally crashed into a mobile phone shop in a residential neighborhood. The impact caused widespread destruction, sending debris across the area.
At least 12 people on the ground were rushed to hospitals with injuries, including smoke inhalation. Two are reported to be in critical condition.
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the crash.
Local media identified the pilot as Luiz Claudio Galeazzi, a prominent Brazilian businessman. He was traveling with his wife, three daughters, additional family members, and a company employee, all of whom perished in the accident.
In a heartfelt statement on LinkedIn, Galeazzi’s company, Galeazzi & Associados, confirmed his passing and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support.
“In this moment of intense pain, we are deeply thankful for the manifestations of solidarity and love we have received from friends, colleagues, and the community. We also express our solidarity with those who have been affected by this accident in the region.
Security footage captured the Piper plane taking off from Canela Airport, just 10 kilometers from Gramado, minutes before the crash.
Gramado, nestled in the Serra Gaúcha mountains of Rio Grande do Sul State, is a top destination for Brazilian tourists. Known for its cool climate, scenic hiking trails, and charming architecture influenced by 19th-century German and Italian settlers, the town is especially popular during the Christmas season.
This tragic incident has left the local community and visitors in mourning, as they come to terms with the devastating loss of lives and the destruction caused in one of Brazil’s most beloved tourist towns.
Officials are continuing their investigation into the crash as the town grapples with the aftermath of this heartbreaking event.
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