A recent report details the tragic moments before a humanitarian flight crashed in Florida, leading to the deaths of an evangelical pastor, Alexander Wurm, 53, and his daughter, Serena, 22.
The preliminary findings from the National Transportation Safety Board, released on Wednesday, shed light on the incident that occurred on November 10 in Coral Springs. As the plane ascended smoothly, it soon stalled at around 3,100 feet. Afterward, the radio communication from Wurm, who was piloting the aircraft, abruptly ceased.
During this critical time, all that was captured over the radio was “heavy breathing and ‘moaning’,” while air traffic controllers tried desperately to reestablish contact, urging him to continue climbing.
Moments later, the plane’s last known position was approximately 200 feet away and 350 feet above the crash site.
Surveillance footage revealed the aircraft descending in a “nose-down attitude” without any visible smoke or vapor. The video also recorded the engine running.
The Wurms were on a mission to deliver essential supplies to Jamaica, which suffered severe damage from Hurricane Melissa. They chartered the flight through Mr. Wurm’s Christian mission organization, Ignite the Fire, departing from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport.
The aircraft, a Beech King Air B100, had a maximum cargo limit of about 1,000 pounds, but it was reportedly not weighed before takeoff. Wurm had checked the weight of each box meticulously, yet the cabin was filled with unsecured luggage scattered across the seats.
Upon crashing into the pond in Coral Springs, the plane was described as entirely “destroyed.” When rescuers arrived, according to Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department Deputy Chief Mike Moser, there was no visible sign of the plane.
Divers were dispatched to search the pond, but initially found no victims. The confirmation of Wurm’s death was announced by Ignite the Fire on November 11.
Described as warm-hearted and kind, Wurm was committed to humanitarian work and spreading the gospel. The organization stated he devoted his life to helping others and traveled extensively to offer his support.
Serena also followed her father’s legacy, known for her empathy and dedication to humanitarian efforts. The organization emphasized that their final journey together represented selflessness and love.
Jamaica faced widespread destruction from Hurricane Melissa, which struck the island as a Category 5 storm in late October, crippling power and infrastructure.
