Pilot and Heroes Continue to Recover After Tropic Air Hijacking

The three men who bravely intervened during the shocking hijacking of a Tropic Air flight continue to recovery from the injuries they received. Among the injured was Tropic Air employee Jair Francesco Castaneda, who was stabbed while attempting to disarm the attacker. Both Castaneda and Fitzgerald Brown, the passenger who fatally shot the hijacker, were admitted to Belize Medical Associates. On Friday afternoon, Castaneda was released, while Brown, who underwent surgery for stab wounds, was released on Saturday. On Facebook, Castaneda thanked the public for the support his received and expressed gratitude for being back at home with his family. The aircraft’s pilot, Howell Grange, is still receiving care at Belize Health Care Partners. Grange sustained multiple stab wounds to his face, back, and arms. Yesterday, his wife shared on social media that the injuries were so severe, he had to undergo major surgery and was placed in an induced coma due to blood in his lungs. Despite the trauma, Grange is now awake, able to speak a little, and remains in good spirits. According to his wife, he joked, saying, “I need a cold Belikin,” and was especially uplifted by a visit from his daughter.  And, today, the Pilot broke his silence and took to Facebook to speak on what he labelled as “an unfortunate and unexpected event.” Grange expressed deep gratitude and thanked the Belizean public and those abroad for their prayers and support. He extended special thanks to his family, fellow pilots, Tropic Air, the aviation authorities, and passengers for their bravery and composure. He also commended the Belizean security forces and first responders for their professionalism.  Also over the weekend, the family of Taylor, a U.S. war veteran, stated that they were shocked to learn of the hijacking and said he did not suffer from any mental issues.