Mexican Interior Minister killed in aircrash

On 4 November 2008 a government-owned Learjet 45 aircraft carrying several Mexican officials crashed at approximately 1900 local time in the Lomas de Chapultepec neighborhood of Mexico City. The crash occurred in an area with several tall commercial and residential buildings near the Paseo de la Reforma, one of the city's main avenues. At least nine people were killed and at least 50 were injured. Mexican Interior Minister Juan Camilo Mourino was among the fatalities. The aircraft was en route from Ponciano Arriaga International Airport (MMSP/SLP) in San Luis Potosi and was scheduled to arrive at Mexico City International Airport (MMMX/MEX). The aircraft reported an emergency shortly after takeoff and at some point lost contact with the control tower in Mexico City. The cause of the crash is unknown at this point. There has been much speculation in the Mexican press that the crash was an act of sabotage that may have targeted Jose Luis Santiago, a former anti-drug prosecutor who had survived a previous assassination attempt. However, there have thus far been no reported indications of foul play. The Mexican military has heightened security at the San Luis Airport as authorities carry out an investigation into the crash. Travelers should expect transportation delays in Mexico City.