At Least 5 Dead, Including One Child, After Plane Crashes Near Galveston Bay

According to a KSAT News report, a plane transporting civilians and Mexican naval officers crashed near Galveston Bay, resulting in multiple fatalities.¹

Authorities said the accident happened at around 3:15 p.m. on Monday, December 22nd, at the base of the causeway in Galveston. Air traffic controllers reportedly lost contact with the plane 10 minutes before it crashed. It is unclear why the plane crashed, though weather may have been a factor–conditions were foggy at the time of the accident.

The plane was a small Mexican Navy aircraft transporting four officers and four civilians. Five people were killed, one is missing and presumed dead, and two survived:

Members of the Mexican Navy who died:

• Lieutenant A.N. P.A. Víctor Rafael Pérez Hernández.
• Lieutenant S.S.N. Juan Iván Zaragoza Flores.
• Marinero A.N. E. Av. Guadalupe Flores Barranco.

Missing (presumed deceased):

• Lieutenant A.N. P.A. Luis Enrique Castillo Terrones.

Passengers who died:

• Federico Efraín Ramírez Cruz (Patient).
• Juan Alfonso Adame González (Doctor).

Survivors:

• Julia Aracelis Cruz Vera (Companion).
• Miriam de Jesús Rosas Mancilla (Nurse).

The investigation into the crash is ongoing. Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) officials are assisting multiple agencies in this investigation.

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Did You Know?

Since the beginning of 2025, at least 188 people have died in 60 U.S. aviation incidents, according to a Fox News report.²

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Suing for Wrongful Death After a Fatal Plane Crash in Texas

A fatal plane crash can leave families reeling with grief, unanswered questions, and overwhelming financial uncertainty. In addition to the emotional toll, surviving loved ones are often faced with unexpected medical bills, funeral expenses, and the sudden loss of income or household support.

Under Texas law, certain family members may pursue a wrongful death claim when negligence or misconduct contributes to a deadly aviation accident. Understanding how these claims work—and who may be held legally responsible—can help families make informed decisions during an incredibly difficult time.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?

Texas law allows the deceased person’s spouse, children, or parents to file a wrongful death claim. These individuals may seek compensation for the personal losses they suffered as a result of their loved one’s death.

If none of the eligible family members file a claim within the required timeframe, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate may be permitted to bring a survival action on behalf of the estate. While related, survival actions differ from wrongful death claims. A survival action focuses on damages the deceased could have pursued had they survived, such as medical expenses or pain and suffering prior to death.

Determining Liability After a Plane Crash

Aviation accident cases are often far more complex than typical motor vehicle accident claims. Multiple parties may share responsibility, and identifying every potentially liable entity is critical to maximizing recovery.

Depending on the circumstances, responsible parties may include:

• The aircraft owner or operator

• The pilot or flight crew

• Aircraft maintenance or inspection providers

• Manufacturers of defective aircraft parts or systems

• Third-party contractors involved in flight operations

• Government entities, in limited circumstances

Mechanical failure, improper maintenance, pilot error, or adverse weather conditions may each play a role in a crash. When government agencies are involved, special notice requirements and shortened deadlines may apply, making early legal action especially important.

The Role of Accident Investigations

Fatal plane crashes typically trigger investigations by multiple state and federal agencies. These investigations aim to determine the cause of the accident, but they are not conducted on behalf of the victims’ families.

Key evidence in aviation cases may include:

• Flight data and communication records

• Maintenance and inspection logs

• Weather reports and radar data

• Witness statements

• Wreckage and component analysis

While official investigations can take months—or even years—families do not need to wait for a final report before speaking with an attorney. Preserving evidence early is often essential to protecting a wrongful death claim.

Time Limits for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim

In most cases, Texas imposes a two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims. This means families generally have two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can permanently bar recovery, regardless of how strong the case may be.

Certain claims, including those involving government entities, may involve shorter notice periods. Prompt legal guidance is critical to avoid losing important rights.

Lost a Loved One in a Plane Crash? Call Shaw.

No one should have to struggle with the aftermath of losing a loved one alone. If you lost a family member in a plane crash, you could be entitled to compensation for things like:

• Funeral and burial expenses

• Medical costs

• Lost income and future financial support

• Loss of companionship, care, and guidance

• Mental anguish suffered by surviving family members

We can help you find out for free.

Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced aviation accident lawyer in Texas. No fees, no obligations, just the expert legal advice you need when you need it the most.

We look forward to serving you.

 

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¹KSAT Report

²Fox News Report