On Thursday, January 4, 2024, a small plane plunged into the Caribbean Sea, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including a well-known actor and his two daughters.
The fatal crash happened just after noon, off the coast of Bequia, an island belonging to the chain of the Grenadines within the nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The victims were identified as 51-year-old Christian Klepser, an American actor also known by his professional name, Christian Oliver. Also killed were Oliver’s daughters, Madita Klepser, 10, and Annik Klepser, 12, along with the plane’s pilot and owner, Robert Sachs.
The actor, known in the movie industry for his roles in films like “Speed Racer” and “Valkyrie,” was also recognized for his television roles, such as in “Saved by the Bell: The New Class.”
Born Christian Klepser in Frankfurt, Germany, Oliver had established a firm position in both the American and German film industries. His recent work included a role in the 2020 film “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,” as well as voice acting in popular video games like “Call of Duty” and “Medal of Honor.”
The aircraft, a single-engine plane, had taken off from J.F. Mitchell Airport and was en route to St. Lucia. Shortly after takeoff, the plane encountered difficulties and crashed into the sea approximately one nautical mile west of Petit Nevis, a privately owned island in close proximity to Bequia.
Local fishermen, along with divers from the neighboring Paget Farm community, quickly arrived at the crash site to provide aid. The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard undertook the search and rescue operations. Despite their efforts, all four passengers were recovered from the plane’s wreckage and declared deceased.
The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force is investigating the mechanical failure that led to the crash.
