Families of victims of an airliner crash in Brazil are gathering in Sao Paulo as forensics experts work to identify the remains of the 62 people killed in the accident. The bodies of the pilot and co-pilot were the first to be identified. The ATR 72 twin-engine turboprop operated by Brazilian airline Voepass was headed for Guarulhos international airport in Sao Paulo with 58 passengers and four crew members when it crashed in Vinhedo, north of the metropolis.
At least eight physicians and four professors were among the victims. The only child known to be on the passenger list was three-year-old Liz Ibba dos Santos. The remains of a dog traveling with a Venezuelan family were also found in the wreckage.
Forensics experts are working to identify the bodies recovered from the crash site. Families have been asked to provide medical records to assist in the identification process. The Sao Paulo morgue began receiving the bodies on Friday evening.
Local authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, with reports suggesting severe icing in the area at the time of the accident. The world's deadliest airline crash since January 2023, the incident has raised concerns about the safety of the ATR 72 aircraft model.
The Brazilian air force has taken possession of the plane's flight recorders for analysis. Results are expected to be released within 30 days. Aviation experts caution that meteorological conditions alone may not fully explain the circumstances of the crash.
The airline has stated that weather conditions were within acceptable levels for the aircraft. The ATR 72, commonly used for shorter flights, has been involved in previous crashes resulting in fatalities. Investigations into the crash are ongoing as families mourn the loss of their loved ones.
