In a sobering incident this week, multiple soldiers lost their lives when a helicopter belonging to the Colombian Army crashed in Unguía, a municipality in the Chocó department near the border with Panama. The fallen individuals include the helicopter’s pilot, Major Karol Felipe García Murillo; Captain Dario Bernal Toloza; Lieutenant Jhon Old Barbosa, who was also a pilot; and Deputy Staff Sergeant Javier Elías Reino, a crew chief. Their names have been released by military authorities as part of the formal notification process.
Authorities described the crash as a fatal event during ongoing operations at the Cuti Binational military base. Troops were conducting an internal reloading operation when the incident occurred on a Monday afternoon. In a statement, military officials said ground personnel acted immediately to assess the condition of the crew and any personnel aboard, and they coordinated with Panamanian authorities regarding search and rescue efforts, for which help was asked and received in advance. The military expressed gratitude for the Panamanian response and noted the close cooperation between neighbors on security matters.
The other three crew members sustained injuries and were transported to a medical facility for treatment. Reports indicate that the team member, who specialized in the Antioquia region, was accompanied by authorities who confirmed their recovery and provided ongoing support. The Army Commander, General Luis Ospina, directed comprehensive efforts to assist those affected by the incident. He emphasized a commitment to caring for the families of injured personnel and ensuring that they are supported throughout the difficult period that follows.
An Army Inspection Commission together with the Aviation Accident Investigation Group is expected to travel to the crash site to determine the circumstances surrounding the event and to gather evidence that will guide safety reviews, accountability, and any necessary recommendations for preventing similar tragedies in the future.