In heartbreaking news that has stunned fans across Latin America and beyond, popular Colombian singer-songwriter Yeison Jiménez has died in a plane crash at the age of 34. Jiménez, a major figure in música popular — a genre blending regional Colombian and Mexican influences — was one of six people onboard a small charter plane that crashed shortly after takeoff in the Boyacá department of Colombia on January 10, 2026.
According to aviation authorities, the aircraft — a Piper PA-31 Navajo registered as N325FA — failed to gain altitude after departing Juan José Rondón Airport in Paipa, and crashed in an open field near the runway between Paipa and Duitama. All six occupants, including the pilot, co-pilot, Jiménez, and members of his musical team, were killed instantly.
A Rising Star in Colombian Popular Music
Yeison Orlando Jiménez Galeano was born on July 26, 1991, in Manzanares, Caldas, Colombia. His musical journey began early, and he first showed promise as a young singer with a deep passion for the rhythms and stories rooted in Colombia’s popular music tradition.
Jiménez’s career took off after years of hard work and humble beginnings. His first commercial recording, “Te Deseo Lo Mejor”, released in 2013, opened the door to many opportunities and helped him connect with audiences who were drawn to his heartfelt lyrics and powerful voice.
He wasn’t just another voice — he became one of the most recognizable faces of música popular, a genre that often gives voice to everyday life, love, heartbreak, and resilience. Hits like “Aventurero” and “Vete” were especially beloved, amassing millions of views and streams on online platforms.
In a historic moment for the genre, Jiménez broke records by selling out major venues — most notably filling Bogotá’s Estadio El Campín with over 40,000 fans — something almost unheard of for a traditional popular music artist.
Beyond Music: A Fresher Face in Media
Yeison was not just a singer — he was a personality. He appeared as a judge on the popular Colombian TV program Yo Me Llamo, helping guide and critique emerging talents. This broadened his reach, making him recognizable not just to music lovers, but also to broader television audiences.
He often interacted with fans through social media, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of life on the road, studio sessions, and moments with his family. His down-to-earth nature and authenticity made him relatable — a star who never forgot where he came from.
Family Life and Personal Story
Behind the microphone was a devoted family man. Yeison was married to Sonia Restrepo, and the couple had three children: Camila, Thaliana, and Santiago. His family often appeared in his social posts, reminding fans that beyond the spotlight, he was a loving husband and father.
Friends and fans often described him as generous and resilient — someone who had risen from humble beginnings in Caldas to national stardom through sheer grit, passion, and talent.
The Fatal Flight and Aftermath
The flight that ended Jiménez’s life was headed for Medellín, where he was scheduled to perform later that evening. Minutes after takeoff, something went horribly wrong. The jet failed to climb and came down hard near the runway, engulfed in flames upon impact.
Rescue teams and authorities — including the National Police, firefighters, and Civil Defense units — responded swiftly, but there were no survivors.
Among those killed alongside Yeison were his manager, assistant, and other close associates from his touring team, reminding everyone that the tragedy extended far beyond one life lost.
Authorities Begin Investigation
Meanwhile, aviation authorities have launched a full investigation into the crash. Officials are examining all possible factors, including mechanical issues, weather conditions, and flight procedures.
The goal is to understand exactly what went wrong and whether anything could have been prevented. While investigations like these take time, authorities have promised transparency and thoroughness.
A Nation Mourns
Tributes have flooded in from all corners of Colombia and the wider Latin music community. From fellow artists to national leaders, many have shared memories of Yeison’s vibrant energy, his journey from local stages to international recognition, and the way his songs connected with people from all walks of life.
In Boyacá, local officials announced a day of mourning to honor Jiménez and the others who perished in the crash — a reminder of how deeply this loss has affected people.
Social platforms are filled with fans posting clips of his performances, lyrics from his songs, and heartfelt messages like “Gracias por la música que nos diste” and “Siempre vivirás en nuestros corazones.” Truly, it’s a moment that feels too sudden, too raw — like one day he was filling arenas, maybe telling friends about his dreams, and the next, gone.
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