The nation of The Bahamas, while in the midst of celebrating its 53rd independence anniversary, was plunged into a period of profound mourning following a tragic aviation accident on Friday, July 10, 2026. A small Cessna 402 aircraft, operated by Flamingo Air, crashed in the North Andros region, resulting in the deaths of all ten individuals on board. Among the victims were several cherished members of the popular Da Pond Band and a well-known local DJ, leaving their surviving bandmates and the wider entertainment community in a state of shock.
A Journey Interrupted
The flight, which was expected to take less than 20 minutes, departed from Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau and was en route to San Andros on Andros Island. The musicians and DJ were traveling to perform at an upcoming Independence Day celebration.
According to the Bahamian Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority, the plane encountered difficulties and crashed into dense bushes before it could reach the runway. While Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis initially provided hope by stating that one person had survived, he later confirmed with heavy heart that the individual had succumbed to their injuries. “We gather beneath a cloud of great sorrow,” the Prime Minister stated. “It has become a day of mourning. To every family that has received the devastating news, that someone they love will not be coming home, we offer our deepest condolences”.
Remembering the Victims
The loss of the Da Pond Band members has been described as a “devastating blow” not only to the group but to the entire country. The band was a fixture at cultural events, known for their lively performances and their contribution to the cultural fabric of The Bahamas.
The band confirmed that five of its core members were among those who perished: Giovanni McKenzie (keyboardist), Mateo Winder, Rashad Storr, Tonique Gilot, and Travis Johnson (vocalist). Additionally, Melvin Henfield, widely known as DJ Fresh, was identified as a victim of the crash. Other passengers identified in media reports included Quinton Myers, Franklyn Cambridge, and Macaro Rolle.
“Still Shocked”: Bandmates Speak Out
In the days following the tragedy, surviving band members have begun to share their heartbreak. Shaniese Miller, a singer for Da Pond Band, expressed her profound disbelief: “I’m still shocked that they’re gone. I can’t believe it. They’re my family and I never expected that to happen”. She recalled that the band had been excited and in high spirits just one week prior, during a performance in Nassau.
Another vocalist, Shenia Roberts, who had traveled to the island earlier that day on the same plane and pilot, also spoke of the deep personal connection she shared with those lost. “They were the people that I talked to in the morning, in the night. They were my friends, my confidants. And I was waiting on them,” she said. Lamar Polhamus, another band singer, took to social media to ask for support as the group navigates this difficult time: “Da Pond Band has lost 5 of its members who were the core, the heart, and the life of the band. This recovery will be long and rough”.
Investigation and Government Response
The tragedy prompted the Bahamian government to temporarily suspend Flamingo Air’s air operator certificate as a precautionary safety measure. The Ministry of Energy, Utilities and Aviation noted that the suspension followed two separate safety incidents involving the airline on the same day. In addition to the crash, another Flamingo Air plane en route to Mayaguana had to return to Nassau due to technical concerns, and subsequently caught fire on the runway after passengers had deboarded.
The Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union honored the deceased in a statement, noting that their “passion, dedication, and artistry touched so many lives and helped to enrich the cultural fabric of The Bahamas”. As investigations into the cause of the crash continue, the nation remains united in grief, remembering the talented individuals whose music and presence were cut far too short.
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