A Gulfstream jet crashed shortly after takeoff from La Romana International Airport in the Dominican Republic , killing the pilot and co‑pilot. The aircraft was bound for Texas to pick up former MLB star Yadier Molina, according to the report .

La Romana Airport Scene: Thick Smoke and Firefighters Respond

Firefighters battled thick black smoke that billowed from the wreckage as authorities secured the scene,the report says.. The US‑registered Gulfstream had just arrived from Puerto Rico and was scheduled to transport Molina and his family from Texas to Puerto Rico.

Emergency Return Attempt Followed by Loss of Stability

The crew reported an in‑flight emergency shortly after takeoff and attempted to return to the runway before the aircraft lost stability and crashed within the airport perimeter, the report states. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the failure, authorities said.

Yadier Molina’s Devastation Shared on Social Media

Former catcher Yadier Molina expressed devastation on social media, noting the plane was en route to pick him up,the report notes. Molina, a two‑time World Series champion and ten‑time All‑Star, is considered one of baseball’s best defensive players.

Unanswered Questions About the Crash’s Cause

What caused the in‑flight emergency reported by the crew? Why did the aircraft lose stability during the attempted return? Are there any mechanical or pilot‑error factors involved? These questions remain unanswered as investigators gather evidence,the report says.