Colombian tourists honored in Rio funeral after fatal helicopter crash

Funeral services were held in Rio de Janeiro for three Colombian tourists—Rocío Cubillos, Wendy Manrique, and Sofía Murillo—who died following a helicopter crash in the Vista Chinesa region of Alto da Boa Vista earlier this month.

The victims, including 17-year-old digital influencer Sofía Murillo, were traveling with family when their Robinson R44 helicopter, operated by VRP (Voos Rio Panorâmicos e Serviços Aeronáuticos), went down on August 8. The crash also claimed the life of the pilot, Alessandro Rocha. Following the ceremony at the Penitência Cemetery and Crematorium, the bodies are expected to be returned to Colombia for burial.

An investigation into the accident is currently being conducted by the Civil Police and the Aeronautical Accident Investigation and Prevention Center (Cenipa). Authorities are working to confirm data and assess the causes of the crash.