A vacation turned tragic for Captain Dwight Bonus, a decorated officer of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), who is now fighting for his life following a devastating plane crash in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Tuesday.

Captain Bonus was aboard a Cessna 210 aircraft, en route from North Perry Airport in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Howard Hamilton International Airport (PLS) when disaster struck during final approach. The aircraft went down with two individuals onboard, one of whom tragically did not survive.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) confirmed that the aircraft, registered under tail number N1110S, encountered trouble around 15:14h, prompting immediate emergency response. Firefighters, medics, law enforcement, and marine rescue units, including assistance from Las Brisas, rushed to the crash site in a desperate effort to save lives.

Captain Bonus was critically injured in the incident but survived and was medically evacuated for advanced treatment. The GDF has confirmed that while his condition remains serious, he is currently stable and receiving urgent care overseas.

“Captain Bonus was on personal vacation at the time of the incident,” stated the GDF in an official release. “We are in close contact with the relevant authorities and continue to monitor the situation. Our thoughts and full support are with Captain Bonus and his family.” The GDF stands firmly by its injured officer, known among his peers for his discipline, professionalism, and unwavering service to his country.

Investigation Underway

While Captain Bonus clings to life, Turks and Caicos authorities have confirmed one fatality from the crash. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.

The crash forced a temporary closure of Howard Hamilton International Airport from 15:14h to 17:19h, as rescue and investigation teams secured the area and began their preliminary assessments.

“Our thoughts remain with the individuals involved in today’s crash and their loved ones,” said Arlington Musgrove, Minister with Responsibility for TCIAA. “We are committed to uncovering the cause of this tragedy.” The National Security Council, along with the Civil Aviation Authority, has launched a full investigation into the incident, which may take weeks to complete.