MEXICO CITY: Tragic scenes unfolded in the municipality of San Mateo Atenco on Tuesday as a small aircraft crashed into an industrial area, claiming at least seven lives. The incident occurred approximately 5.7 kilometers from Toluca International Airport, a major aviation hub serving the Toluca Valley.
According to local authorities, the aircraft was carrying 10 individuals, including the pilot and co-pilot. While the victims have not yet been formally identified, the state civil protection agency confirmed via social media that seven bodies have been recovered from the wreckage so far.
Preliminary reports suggest the pilot attempted an emergency landing on a local soccer field. However, the aircraft struck the metal roof of a nearby business, triggering a massive fire that engulfed the structure. Emergency responders worked for hours to contain the blaze and secure the site.
The cause of the crash remains unknown, and an official investigation has been launched by federal and state aviation authorities to determine the factors leading to the accident. Toluca International Airport remained operational, though local traffic in the San Mateo Atenco industrial zone was diverted as recovery efforts continued into the night.