Renowned actor Christian Oliver, accompanied by his two young daughters and the pilot of a compact aircraft, tragically lost their lives when the plane crashed into the Caribbean Sea, as authorities reported on Friday.
The statement from the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force identified the actor, 51, by his birth name, Christian Klesper, and mentioned his daughters Madita, 12, and Annik, 10, who were aboard the small aircraft. The pilot, Robert Sachs, a local resident and owner of the plane, was also recognized by the U.S. State Department as an American.
Oliver’s representatives confirmed the heartbreaking news, expressing their condolences, stating that their “thoughts and prayers are with him, his two daughters, and his family.”
The police report indicated that the plane crashed into the sea approximately one mile off the coast of Petit Nevis shortly after midday. The intended destination was St. Lucia, approximately 65 miles away. However, soon after takeoff, the aircraft encountered difficulties and plunged into the ocean.
Local fishermen and divers swiftly approached the crash site, with divers successfully recovering the bodies. The Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard, present at the scene, took charge of the bodies.
A medical practitioner confirmed the unfortunate demise of all four individuals on board, with post-mortem examinations planned to ascertain the causes of their deaths.
The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force is actively investigating the plane crash, with the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority providing assistance in the inquiry.
The U.S. State Department assured that it is extending “all appropriate consular assistance” to the families affected.
Christian Oliver, originally from Germany and acclaimed for his role in the 2008 film “Speed Racer,” had shared on New Year’s Day that he and his family were enjoying time in paradise. His filmography also includes notable works such as “The Good German” and “Valkyrie.”
According to his IMDb page, Oliver is set to appear in two upcoming films. “London Blue,” currently in post-production, awaits a release date, while the production of “Forever Hold Your Peace” is still ongoing. Director Nick Lyon expressed gratitude for their collaboration on Instagram, highlighting their longstanding professional relationship.