6 survivors in Colombia plane crash
By: News Staff
The Associated Press
news@abc6.com
BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — Colombia’s civil aviation agency now says at least six people have survived the plane crash that killed more than 70 people, including many members of a Brazilian soccer team.
The agency statement says at least three players, two plane crew members and one journalist survived Monday’s crash near the city of Medellin.
Reports about the number of survivors have varied overnight because of confusion amid the emergency.
Authorities say the plane declared an emergency at 10 p.m. local time last night, because of an electrical failure. It was headed to Colombia’s international airport.
An injury sidelined soccer player Alejandro Martinuccio. It also likely saved his life.
The Argentine forward wasn’t able to play in the scheduled match in Colombia, so he wasn’t on the team plane that crashed last night in Colombia, killing most of those aboard. He told Argentina’s La Red radio that “I was saved because I got injured.”
“I feel profound sadness,” he said. “The only thing I can ask is prayers for the companions who were on the flight.”
The 28-year-old has played for teams in Spain, Uruguay, and Brazil.
©WLNE-TV / ABC6 2016
