SOURCE: Caribbean Loop News

Ajudicial investigation into involuntary manslaughter has been launched by authorities in Martinique following a tragic plane crash in Dominica that claimed the lives of four French nationals.

The crash occurred on Sunday when a small aircraft, en route from Douglas-Charles Airport to Martinique, went down in the mountains near the southeastern village of La Plaine.

The investigation, led by the prosecutor of Fort-de-France, focuses on potential breaches of safety or prudence that may have contributed to the incident. French authorities aim to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the crash and whether gross negligence or recklessness played a role.

A specialized team from Paris’ Air Transport division, along with the Brigade of Gendarmerie of Air Transport in Lamentin, has been tasked with the investigation.

As of the latest updates, the team was en route to Martinique to begin their work. Recovery operations have been complicated by the rugged terrain, with efforts set to begin on Tuesday, January 28, led by specialized teams from the Martinique Fire Brigade (SIS972).

The plane, a Cessna 172, took off at 3:46 p.m. on Sunday and crashed later that day, with no signs of life found near the wreckage. The victims have been identified as pilot Jean-Benoit A. (23), co-pilot Marving B. (41), and passengers Kylian B. (23) and Marcelline M. (25).

In response to the tragedy, French authorities have arranged for psychological support services for the families of the victims, beginning Tuesday.

The investigation into this devastating crash continues as authorities work to piece together what led to the loss of four lives.