5 Americans among 7 killed in Kenya helicopter crash, including Telemundo executive

Five Americans are dead following a helicopter crash in a remote area of northern Kenya, the U.S.

Five Americans are dead following a helicopter crash in a remote area of northern Kenya, the U.S. State Department confirmed in a statement to NBC News on Wednesday.

Seven people were on board when the aircraft crashed in the foothills of Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County at 9:13 a.m. local time, according to Kenya’s Civil Aviation Authority. The six passengers and the pilot were all killed, local police said Wednesday.

A State Department spokesperson confirmed the deaths of five Americans, saying the U.S. Embassy is in touch with local authorities and is providing consular assistance.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones on their loss,” the spokesperson said.

Kenya’s Red Cross said its search and recovery efforts were impeded by the difficult terrain and a fire at the site of the crash in the foothills of Mount Ololokwe.Allan Muturi / LightRocket via Getty Images fileKenya’s Civil Aviation Authority identified Lady Lori Kenya as the helicopter operator.