The Congressional El Salvador Caucus in the United States has joined in mourning the loss of Mauricio Arriaza Chicas, Director of El Salvador’s National Civil Police (PNC), who tragically perished in a helicopter crash on Sunday. The Caucus extended its prayers and condolences to the families of Arriaza Chicas and the other police officials who lost their lives in the incident.
“You are heroes to your people, and the United States stands with you,” the Caucus declared in a statement, offering solidarity with the Salvadoran people during this difficult time.
The crash, which occurred in the San Eduardo area of the Pasaquina district, La Unión, claimed the lives of several top PNC officials, including Commissioners García Funes and Romero Torres. The helicopter was on a mission transporting a former Cosavi general manager who had been expelled from Honduras.
President Nayib Bukele ordered a national mourning period, with flags at half-mast for three days to honor the fallen officials. He also announced that El Salvador would seek international assistance to investigate the crash thoroughly, stating, “This cannot be left as a simple ‘accident.’ It must be thoroughly investigated to the fullest extent.”
U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador, William H. Duncan, also expressed his condolences, calling the loss “a terrible tragedy” and offering support to the families and the nation.
The death of Arriaza Chicas, who played a critical role in El Salvador’s recent security transformation, has deeply impacted the nation and its international partners. The United States continues to stand in solidarity with El Salvador as the investigation into the incident unfolds.