Actor Christian Oliver and 2 daughters killed in Caribbean plane crash

Actor Christian Oliver, two daughters, and a pilot die in a plane crash. U.S. State Department and local police confirm.

Actor Christian Oliver, along with his two young daughters and the pilot of a small plane, tragically lost their lives after the aircraft crashed into the Caribbean Sea, as confirmed by authorities on Friday.

The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force released a statement identifying Oliver, 51, by his real name Christian Klesper, and his daughters Madita, 10, and Annik, 12, as passengers on the small plane. The pilot, Robert Sachs, was also identified as an American by the U.S. State Department.

Representatives for Oliver also confirmed his death, expressing their condolences and stating that their "thoughts and prayers are with him, his two daughters, and his family."

The police force reported that the plane crashed into the sea approximately a mile off the coast of Petit Nevis after midday. The aircraft was en route to St. Lucia, about 65 miles away, but encountered difficulties shortly after takeoff and ultimately plummeted into the ocean.

Local fishermen and divers swiftly responded to the crash, and divers were able to recover the bodies, which were then transferred to the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Coast Guard.

A medical practitioner confirmed the deaths of all four individuals on board the plane, and post-mortem examinations will be conducted to determine the causes of death.

The investigation into the plane crash is ongoing, with the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force leading the efforts. The Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority is also involved in gathering information to assist in the investigation.

The U.S. State Department has pledged to provide "all appropriate consular assistance" to the families of the victims during this difficult time.

Oliver, a German-born actor best known for his role in the 2008 film "Speed Racer," had shared on New Year's Day that he and his family were "somewhere in paradise." He has also appeared in other notable films such as "The Good German" and "Valkyrie."

Additionally, Oliver is set to feature in two upcoming movies, "London Blue," which is currently in post-production, and "Forever Hold Your Peace," which is still in production. The film's director, Nick Lyon, expressed his gratitude for their collaboration and friendship, emphasizing the positive working relationship they shared.