Florida Man and Daughter Identified as Victims in Jamaica Plane Crash While Delivering Hurricane Relief
MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica – Alex Wurm, a humanitarian pilot, and his daughter, Serena Wurm, have been identified as the victims of a plane crash off the coast of Jamaica, authorities confirmed Tuesday. The pair were flying supplies to assist wiht recovery efforts following recent hurricanes when their aircraft went down.
The Wurms, residents of George Town, Cayman Islands, were dedicated to providing aid to communities impacted by disaster. Alex Wurm, of Ignite the Fire ministry, regularly transported critical supplies – including medical provisions, water filters, and building materials – between the Cayman Islands and Jamaica. his daughter, Serena, actively participated in the humanitarian work, continuing a legacy of service. The crash has prompted an investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to determine the cause.
According to a video statement on Facebook, Wurm ”didn’t hesitate – he sprung into action and did what he coudl with what he had in his hand. He saved lives and he gave his life for the people of the nations that were on his heart.”
Ferrin Cole, team leader in Jamaica for CRI, described partnering with Wurm and his daughter as “an honor,” noting Wurm “kept showing up over and over, repeatedly flying in supplies that we couldn’t get anywhere else.” Cole added that Wurm “just delivered a bunch of medical supplies…so many things that this community has needed. He wanted us to know Jesus, that was his reason for helping people.”
ignite the fire’s Facebook page described Serena Wurm as “a beacon of empathy and hope, inspiring all with her commitment to humanitarian work.”
Alex Wurm is survived by his wife, Candace, and two children, James, 17, and Christiana, 20.
recovery operations continued Tuesday, with crews working to locate and retrieve wreckage from the 1976 King Air, which can seat up to 12 people. FlightAware data shows the plane had been making regular trips between the Cayman Islands and Jamaica, including a stop in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Friday. The bodies of the victims have not yet been recovered. The NTSB will lead the investigation into the crash.