A prominent Telemundo executive was among seven people killed when a helicopter crashed near Mount Ololokwe in Kenya on Wednesday. José Alberto Suárez, 55, president and general manager of the Telemundo-owned stations in Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Myers, was aboard the aircraft when it went down.
Kenya's Civil Aviation Authority reported the crash occurred around 9:13 a.m. in Samburu County. NBCUniversal News Chairman Cesar Conde, NBCU Local Chairman Valari Staab, and Telemundo station group president Jose Cancela shared the news in a memo to employees.
"We are heartbroken to share the tragic news that José Suárez, the president and general manager of the Telemundo-owned stations in Orlando, Tampa and Fort Myers, was killed in a helicopter accident in Kenya," the memo stated. "José was a deeply respected leader and beloved friend and colleague across NBCU Local and NBCU News Group."
Suárez was described as an exceptional colleague and mentor who cared deeply about his teams, the communities they served, and the role of local stations. The memo noted his energy, humor, warmth, and sense of purpose, and stated his impact extended far beyond the stations he managed.
Before his leadership roles in Florida, Suárez served as director of creative services and programming for WTVJ in Miami. His career was recognized with multiple accolades, including a Lone Star Emmy, a Suncoast Emmy, three Emmys for best daily newscast, and several Associated Press awards.