LA ROMANA, Dominican Republic — The pilot and co-pilot of a small aircraft were killed after the plane crashed at La Romana International Airport while preparing for a flight to Texas.

According to authorities, the aircraft was involved in an accident on Sunday afternoon shortly after operations began at the airport. Emergency crews responded immediately to the scene and secured the area while rescue and recovery efforts were carried out.

Officials later confirmed that both the pilot and co-pilot died as a result of the crash. Preliminary reports indicate that no passengers were aboard the aircraft at the time of the accident.

Investigators have launched an inquiry to determine the cause of the crash. Aviation authorities are expected to review flight records, maintenance documentation, and evidence recovered from the scene as part of the investigation.

The identities of the victims were not immediately released, pending notification of family members. Airport operations were affected while emergency personnel worked at the site.

The investigation remains ongoing.