BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. — New details have emerged after two men were killed Wednesday when their plane crashed in the Florida Everglades near Alligator Alley.
The victim’s son confirmed to Local 10 News Thursday that 51-year-old Mohamed Badenjki was one of the men killed in the crash.
According to Badenjki’s family, he was a pilot and businessman, but it is unclear if he was piloting the Cessna Skyhawk when it crashed in the Everglades.
Badenjki’s loved ones told Local 10 that he had several years of flying experience.
Local 10 News’ Cody Weddle spoke to Shahzada Faisal, who was friends with Badenjki.
“Really decent guy, just a really friendly guy,” Faisal said. “A really immaculate guy, one of those polished guys, it was something he sort of exhibited in his flying skills.”
Broward Sheriff’s Office detectives also announced Thursday that Khadim Kebe, 37, of Texas, was the second victim who died in the crash.
According to Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue officials, the Cessna Skyhawk went missing at around 6:45 p.m. Tuesday and appeared to be airborne for about 15 minutes before it disappeared.
Data from FlightAware shows the plane, registered to Florida General Aviation Corporation, took off from North Perry Airport.
“We were only notified about 10:30 this morning (Wednesday) that an aircraft was missing,” said Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Michael Kane.
During a search of the wreck, crews discovered the second body.
“We made contact with the aircraft at 11:18, and once we did, we found two occupants, but unfortunately they were deceased,” said Kane.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the two men were onboard for an instructional flight.
Badenjki was previously honored by Miami International Airport and his former employer, American Airlines, with a “Hero of the Year Award” back in 2009.
A press release from that time said he helped save the lives of three people within four days after performing CPR.
An FAA spokesperson said the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the crash.
Faisel believes the plane may have suffered a mechanical issue.
“I’m thinking it was something to do with the engine,” he said. “That would be the only reason why a guy like Mo, something like this would happen.”
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