Martin Velev, son of Bulgarian Olympic chief, dies in jet accident in Greece

Martin Velev, 36, the only son of Vesela Lecheva, president of the Bulgarian Olympic Committee, died after his jet crashed into the sea near the Porto Elea camp on the Halkidiki peninsula in Greece. According to Bulgarian media, he lost control of the jet at high speed, struck his head, and fell into water about 12 metres deep, where he suffered fatal injuries. A nearby tourist attempted a rescue and Greek emergency services arrived quickly, but doctors could only confirm his death after he was brought to the surface.

Velev, who managed his family’s business with his uncle Daniel Lechev, left a pregnant wife, Ana‑Maria, and a three‑year‑old daughter, Vayana; the family was expecting a second child. Greek coast‑guard authorities opened an investigation into the technical condition of the jet and the exact circumstances of the crash. The incident prompted calls for greater safety precautions for water sports.

Public figures, including civil‑society leader Nikolay Popov, expressed condolences and condemned hateful online comments directed at Lecheva and her family.