Ten killed in Bahamas plane crash
Ten people have been killed in a Caribbean plane crash.
Nine passengers and a pilot died after a Flamingo Air operated Cessna 402 crashed in the Bahamas.
The craft was making a short trip from Lynden Pindling International Airport, near the capital Nassau, to San Andros Airport when it "reportedly encountered difficulties", the Bahamian Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority said in a statement.
The crash coincided with the Bahamas' 53rd anniversary of independence.
Prime Minister Philip Davis told local media: "Today is a day of celebration but it has become a day of mourning."
"Once again, a chapter in our nation's story has been marked by tragedy," he added.
The Ministry of Aviation said it had temporarily suspended the airline operator's certificate "as a precautionary safety measure".
The grounding measure "should not be treated as an adverse compliance action against Flamingo Air", it added.
The Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union said in a statement that some of those who had died were prominent members of the "The Pond Band".
Also deceased was a local DJ, which the union said "touched so many lives and helped to enrich the cultural fabric of The Bahamas".
The identities of those who were killed have not been released by authorities.
Singer of Da Pond band, Lamar Polhamus, said on social media: "Da Pond Band has lost five of its members who were the core, the heart, and the life of the band.
"Loved by many.. words just cannot explain this incident.. we ask that you keep us in your prayers along with the families of our beloved deceased."
Philip Brave Davis, Bahamian Prime Minister, said: "Ann and I are praying for the families who are now facing unbearable grief."
He added: "This is a painful moment. The families affected deserve compassion, privacy, and support as the investigation proceeds."
The incident was the second that occurred on Friday.
Just hours earlier, a Flamingo Air flight routed back to Nassau quickly after departing.
A fire broke out on board after the plane landed, according to CBS News.
Investigators remain at the North Andros site to determine the cause of the crash.
In a statement to local media, Flamingo Air said: "At this time, the details are being gathered, and we are committed to cooperating with the relevant authorities."