Tragic Plane Crash in the Bahamas Claims Lives of 10, Including Local Musicians
Devastating Incident in the Bahamas
A tragic plane crash in the Bahamas resulted in the deaths of all ten individuals aboard, which included five members of the well-known Bahamian band Da Pond Band and local entertainer DJ Fresh. They were en route to perform at a significant cultural event on Andros Island.
As reported by Bahamian officials, the Flamingo Air Cessna took off from Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau on July 10, heading towards San Andros. The aircraft went down in North Andros approximately 18 minutes after departure. The group was set to participate in the 31st annual All-Andros and the Berry Island Regatta, a festival that showcases Bahamian culture through music, cuisine, and boat racing.
The deceased members of Da Pond Band were identified as band leader Giovanni McKenzie, lead guitarist Rashad Storr, bassist Mateo Winder, lead vocalist Travis Johnson, and Tonique Gilot. DJ Fresh, whose real name is Melvin Henfield, was also among the victims.
Lamar Polhamus, a singer from Da Pond Band, expressed his sorrow, stating, "Da Pond Band has lost five of its core members who were the essence of the band." He requested time, support, and prayers for the grieving process.
Shaniese Miller, a surviving vocalist, described the loss as heartbreaking, saying, "They were my family, and I never anticipated this tragedy." She mentioned that the band had performed just a week prior in Nassau and were looking forward to the festival in Andros. Miller highlighted the strong bond among the members, noting that Mateo Winder was particularly eager to return to his hometown.
Another surviving member, Shenia Roberts, had flown to Andros earlier that day on the same plane and with the same pilot before the crash occurred. She shared her grief, stating, "They were my friends and confidants, and I was waiting for them." Roberts recalled a conversation with McKenzie before takeoff, where he mentioned that the pilot was waiting for more passengers to fill the plane. She questioned why additional individuals were being sought for a flight that was supposed to be exclusive to the performers.
Investigators are currently working to uncover the cause of the crash. In light of this incident, along with another occurrence on the same day where a different Flamingo Air aircraft caught fire upon landing in Nassau without injuries, the airline has suspended all its flights. While authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of the other passengers, family members believe that 16-year-old Nicholas Oliver Jr. was also on board, having joined the flight at the last moment.