People across Bermuda are in mourning following the air ambulance tragedy involving six people, including a Bermudian mother and son, who have been identified as 66-year-old Marilyn Lavonne Bean and her 41-year-old son, Sergio Wayne Lottimore.
Air ambulances provide a vital link to overseas medical care, and many Bermudian families are familiar with the experience of travelling abroad for treatment, and most families have, at some point, had a family member on an air ambulance.
The aircraft, operated by Latitude Air Ambulance, departed Bermuda for Boston early on Saturday, October 3, carrying the two Bermudian passengers and four Canadian crew members.
Contact was lost off the coast of Nantucket, Massachusetts, prompting a search involving multiple U.S aircraft and vessels, and we extend our gratitude to the American authorities for their search efforts.
Search crews located debris confirmed to be from the aircraft, and the U.S. Coast Guard suspended its search on Sunday evening, October 4.
Latitude subsequently said its four team members, the patient and the accompanying family member were presumed to have died.
Bermuda Premier David Burt said, “While we held out hope for the best, the worst fears have been realized and so our first thoughts are with the families of those so tragically lost. Let us open our hearts to the families in the hope that our expressions of love, support and compassion will bring some comfort as they attempt to deal with this terrible loss.”
Minister of Health Kim Wilson said, “My heart is with the families, friends, colleagues, and loved ones of everyone involved in this tragic incident. This is an incredibly difficult time for all those affected, and I know many people across Bermuda are holding them in their thoughts and prayers.
“We also recognise the dedicated crew who came to Bermuda to provide a service that has supported many families during some of life’s most difficult moments. For that, we are deeply grateful. On behalf of the Ministry of Health, I extend my sincere support to all those affected and keep them in my thoughts and prayers during this profoundly difficult time.”
