At least 25 people have been killed after a plane carrying 81 people, including a Brazilian first division football team, has crashed.

Images VIA

The plane went down in Colombia as it approached Medellin international airport. The Chapecoense team had 48 of its members on board, accompanied by around 21 journalists on their way to a regional tournament.

Reports are stating that there were at least six survivors of the crash, although access to the site is currently difficult – we’ll keep you updated as new information comes in.

Medellin’s mayor Federico Gutierrez said that it was, “a tragedy of huge proportions,” as he travelled to the site in the mountainous area outside of the city. The crash happened shortly before midnight local time this morning.

Ambulances have been struggling to get to the site, as it’s a 30 minute walk from the closest access point. The cold weather and rain makes it even more difficult. The Chapecoense team said on its Facebook page:

May God accompany our athletes, officials, journalists and other guests travelling with our delegation.

The pilot who was operating the British Aerospace 146 short-haul plane apparently declared emergency at 10pm last night due to electrical failure. Authorities and rescuers were called to help, but an air force helicopter had to turn back due to low visibility, as the weather conditions have proved an obstacle.

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Tragically, the team were gearing up for their game before the flight. What an absolutely sad state of affairs. The only glimmer of hope is that there are still some survivors – fingers crossed the emergency services get out there on time to save the few people who did make it.

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RIP to everyone who died during this tragic incident and thoughts go out to the families and friends.