A tragic accident occurred on Sunday when a small plane with 10 people aboard crashed into shops in the heart of Gramado, a popular tourist city in southern Brazil.

Civil defense officials reported that initial indications suggest there were no survivors.

“Unfortunately, initial reports indicate that the aircraft’s occupants did not survive,” Governor Eduardo Leite stated in a statement on X.

According to the public security office of Rio Grande do Sul state, at least 15 people were taken to the city's hospital, most suffering from smoke inhalation caused by the fire triggered by the crash. Authorities detailed that the plane first struck the chimney of a building, then the second floor of a house, before crashing into a furniture store. Debris also reached a nearby inn.

Nestled in a mountainous region, Gramado is the most popular tourist destination in Rio Grande do Sul. The city, which was severely impacted earlier this year by unprecedented floods that claimed dozens of lives and disrupted the state’s economy, is now dealing with this new tragedy just days before Christmas. The festive period, known for decorations and events, has been marred by the accident. (ILKHA)