🚨🚨 JUST IN:Tragedy in São Paulo- Plane Crash Kills 157, Including Top Volleyball Athletes

🚨🚨 JUST IN: Tragedy in São Paulo – Plane Crash Kills 157, Including Top Volleyball Athletes

 

São Paulo, Brazil – June 10, 2025

 

A devastating plane crash near São Paulo has claimed the lives of 157 people, including some of Brazil’s most promising volleyball athletes, officials confirmed Tuesday morning. The aircraft, a chartered flight carrying players, coaches, and staff of a national volleyball delegation, went down shortly after takeoff from Congonhas Airport, en route to an international tournament in Colombia.

 

Eyewitnesses reported seeing the aircraft struggling in the air moments after departure before it lost altitude and crashed in a wooded area on the outskirts of the city. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, but authorities have confirmed no survivors.

 

Among the victims were members of Brazil’s U-21 men’s and women’s national volleyball teams, several of whom had recently been scouted for the senior national squad. The delegation also included well-known coaching figures and officials from the Brazilian Volleyball Confederation (CBV).

 

“A National Loss”

 

“This is one of the darkest days in Brazilian sports history,” said CBV President Renan Dal Zotto in a press conference held hours after the crash. “We have lost not only talented athletes but incredible human beings with bright futures ahead of them. Our entire community is shattered.”

 

Messages of condolence and support have poured in from athletes, sports federations, and governments around the world. Brazilian President Luiz Fernando Lima declared a three-day national mourning period, with flags flown at half-mast in honor of the victims.

 

Investigation Underway

 

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation. Initial reports suggest a potential mechanical failure, but the Brazilian aviation authority (ANAC) has launched a full inquiry, and the aircraft’s black box has been recovered for analysis.

 

Family members of the athletes have gathered at the airport and the CBV headquarters, many in tears, as grief counselors and officials offer support.

 

Global Reaction

 

International volleyball organizations, including the Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB), released statements of mourning, calling the loss “an unimaginable blow to the sport.”

 

A memorial vigil is planned in São Paulo’s Ibirapuera Gymnasium tonight, where fans, fellow athletes, and the general public are expected to gather in tribute.