Yeison Jiménez, a celebrated figure in Colombian music, tragically died at the age of 34 when a private aircraft he was traveling in crashed on January 10, 2024, in Paipa, Boyacá. The aviation accident has sent shockwaves through the Latin music community, as Jiménez was scheduled to perform later that day. His loss resonates deeply, as he represented the ‘Colombian Dream,’ emerging from humble beginnings to achieve international stardom.
The crash occurred shortly after takeoff when the light aircraft reportedly encountered severe mechanical difficulties. According to Colombia’s Civil Aviation Authority, the plane lost power shortly after ascending, causing it to struggle for altitude before it ultimately plummeted into a field and erupted into flames. Eyewitnesses described seeing the aircraft in distress moments before the impact. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the intensity of the fire rendered any chance of survival impossible. All on board, including Jiménez’s manager, Jefferson Osorio, and personal photographer, Weisman Mora, were confirmed deceased.
In a statement on X, Bogotá’s Dirección Técnica de Investigación de Accidentes confirmed the crash of the aircraft, identified by its registration number, N325FA. They stated, “We inform the public about an aviation accident that occurred today.” Jiménez’s representative shared their profound sorrow on Instagram, stating, “With heavy hearts and indescribable grief, Yeison Jiménez’s organization and team deeply regret to announce his passing. Today, we not only say goodbye to an artist; we say goodbye to a son, a brother, a friend, a human being full of dreams and courage.”
Investigation Underway
The Technical Directorate for Accident Investigation has launched a thorough investigation into the crash to ascertain the exact cause of the mechanical failure. Adding a chilling layer to the tragedy, Jiménez had expressed concerns about a potential plane crash in a recent interview with Caracol Television, just three weeks prior. He recounted recurring dreams of a plane accident, stating, “I dreamt three times that we were going to have a plane crash and that I had to tell the pilot to turn around.”
Born on July 26, 1991, in Manzanares, Caldas, Jiménez faced significant challenges early in life, particularly after his mother separated from his abusive father. They relocated to Bogotá, where he worked long hours as a laborer in Corabastos before rising to fame. His journey to becoming Colombia’s beloved artist was marked by a unique blend of traditional Mexican ranchera and Colombian rhythms.
Jiménez’s musical breakthrough came in 2018 with his hit single “Aventurero,” which quickly gained popularity and became one of the most-watched videos on YouTube. His commercial success peaked in 2024, when he achieved the remarkable feat of selling out Bogotá’s Movistar Arena three times. By 2025, he made history as the first Colombian artist to perform at El Campín Stadium, further solidifying his legacy.
A Legacy of Hope
Yeison Jiménez is survived by his wife, Sonia Restrepo, and their three children. His untimely death has left a profound impact on fans and colleagues alike, reflecting a life that inspired many with its message of hope and resilience. As the investigation continues, the music world pauses to remember a talented artist whose career was just beginning to reach extraordinary heights.
