Seven Die in Helicopter Crash at Sacred Mt. Ololokwe in Samburu
A helicopter crash at Mt. Ololokwe in Samburu County kills seven, including six foreign nationals and a Kenyan pilot.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 20, 2026
2 min read
A light aircraft operated by Lady Lori Kenya Ltd crashed at Mt. Ololokwe in Samburu County, northern Kenya, resulting in the deaths of all seven people aboard.
The aircraft was travelling from Soyian in Laikipia to Loisaba Conservancy when it went down in the mountainous terrain. The victims included six foreign nationals and one Kenyan pilot.
Victims Identified
- Roger Edward Duarte (USA)
- Adam Martin Hlavaty (USA)
- Henry Parra (USA)
- Jose Alberto Suarez (USA)
- Stephany Maria Hollihan Vasconez (Ecuadorian-American)
- Michele Sensi-Contugi (Ecuador)
- Josh Outram (Kenyan pilot)
About Mt. Ololokwe
Mt. Ololokwe is a prominent flat-topped mountain rising about 2,000 metres above sea level near Archer's Post. Its steep cliffs and broad summit make it a striking natural landmark in northern Kenya.
The area around the mountain features dry savannah with acacia trees, seasonal rivers, and supports wildlife such as elephants, antelopes, zebras, and various bird species.
For the Samburu community, Mt. Ololokwe holds profound cultural and spiritual importance. It is considered a sacred site where elders perform rituals seeking blessings and guidance. The mountain is believed to be inhabited by ancestral spirits, and visitors are expected to obtain permission from local guides and respect the sacred areas.
In recent years, Mt. Ololokwe has attracted hikers, photographers, and eco-tourists due to its panoramic views and ecological diversity. The best time to visit is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to March.
