Nurse Killed in Southend Plane Crash as Fundraiser Launched named as Maria Fernanda Rojas Ortiz

The first picture has been released of the nurse tragically killed in yesterday’s private medical jet crash at Southend Airport, as friends launch a fundraiser to support her grieving family.

The victim, named by friends as Feña, (Maria Fernanda Rojas Ortiz) was a 31-year-old medic on her first day working aboard a private air ambulance when the twin-engined Beechcraft B200 Super King Air nosedived on take-off and burst into flames, killing all four people on board.

In an emotional tribute, friends described Feña as “beloved by many” and said the pain of her death was “immense and shared.”

“It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of our beloved Feña, in a tragic accident that is still under investigation by the authorities,” they wrote.
“We know the pain is immense and shared by the many people who loved her and supported her at different stages of her life.”

Fundraiser Launched to Support Her Family

A charity fundraiser has now been launched to help cover unexpected costs, including repatriation, funeral arrangements, and travel expenses.

“The idea is to raise funds that will be donated directly to her family, so they can use them for whatever they deem most necessary,” friends added.
“We will be fully transparent in our reporting of contributions.”

The fundraising effort has already begun circulating in private networks among colleagues, healthcare workers, and international friends of Feña.

Investigation Underway

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) is continuing to examine the crash, which occurred around 3:45pm on Sunday, shortly after the aircraft departed for Lelystad in the Netherlands.

Essex Police confirmed all four victims were foreign nationals and efforts are underway to formally identify them and notify their families.

Community Mourning a Life of Service

Feña had recently married her partner and had transitioned from working in a hospital to a private medical aviation role. Her friends described her as kind, dedicated, and passionate about helping others.

“Her wife can barely speak,” one friend said.
“She’s beside herself with grief.”

Zeusch Aviation, which operated the aircraft, has pledged full cooperation with investigators and extended sympathies to the victims’ families..

Default Heading H2

Read more from Southend-on-Sea.