A twin-engine plane crash in a residential neighborhood of Gramado, a popular tourist destination in southern Brazil, has claimed the lives of all 10 people on board, including prominent businessman Luiz Claudio Galeazzi and his family, and left 17 injured on the ground.
The Piper PA-42-1000 aircraft crashed shortly after taking off from Canela on Sunday, hitting the chimney of a house and the second floor of another residence before colliding into a shop.
The Civil Defense agency confirmed the fatalities and detailed the sequence of events leading to the tragedy.
Rio Grande do Sul Governor Eduardo Leite addressed a news conference, confirming that Luiz Claudio Galeazzi, the plane's owner and pilot, perished along with his wife, three daughters, and five other family members.
"This is a moment of profound grief for the state, and we stand with the families affected by this tragedy," the governor said.
Galeazzi’s company, Galeazzi & Associados, paid tribute to its CEO in an emotional LinkedIn post, remembering him as a devoted family man and an exceptional leader. “In this moment of immense pain, we are deeply grateful for the solidarity and support shown by the community,” the statement read.
Of the 17 injured on the ground, 12 remain hospitalized, authorities said. Emergency services worked tirelessly to contain the aftermath of the crash and provide aid to affected residents.
Gramado, nestled in the Serra Gaucha mountains, is a renowned vacation destination, particularly during the festive season when it attracts thousands of tourists with its Christmas-themed events.
The incident has cast a shadow over the region, with many expressing shock and sorrow. “We are devastated. This is a tragedy not only for the families but for all of us who call Gramado home,” said local resident Mariana Souza.
