Yeison Jiménez, a celebrated figure in Colombian music, tragically died on January 10, 2024, at the age of 34. His passing occurred following a private aircraft crash shortly after takeoff in Paipa, Boyacá. The Latin music community is reeling from the loss, as Jiménez was not only a prominent artist but also an inspirational symbol of resilience, having risen from humble beginnings to achieve international fame.
The light aircraft, registered as N325FA, encountered severe mechanical difficulties shortly after departing. According to Colombia’s Civil Aviation Authority, witnesses reported seeing the plane struggle to maintain altitude before it crashed into a field, igniting upon impact. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but the fire’s intensity left no hope for survival for all on board. Tragically, Jiménez was accompanied by his manager, Jefferson Osorio, his personal photographer, Weisman Mora, and two additional individuals, including Captain Fernando Torres.
Community Mourns a Beloved Artist
In an official statement, Bogota’s Dirección Técnica de Investigación de Accidentes confirmed the accident, noting, “We inform the public about an aviation accident that occurred today.” Jiménez’s organization expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “With heavy hearts and indescribable grief, we announce his passing. Today, we not only say goodbye to an artist; we say goodbye to a son, a brother, a friend.”
The shock of Jiménez’s death is magnified by the fact that he was scheduled to perform on the day of the crash. His journey from manual labor to stardom resonated with many, embodying the ‘Colombian Dream.’ Friends and colleagues remembered him not just as a talented vocalist but as a beacon of hope for countless individuals who faced struggles similar to his own.
Investigations Underway
A thorough investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the technical failure that led to the aircraft’s crash. The Technical Directorate for Accident Investigation is examining all aspects of the incident, aiming to provide clarity to the grieving community.
In a poignant revelation, Jiménez had shared a haunting premonition of his fate just weeks prior to his death. In an interview with Caracol Television, he detailed recurring dreams of a plane crash, stating, “I dreamt three times that we were going to have a plane crash… And in one of the dreams, I dreamt that we had died and that we were on the news.” This eerie foresight adds a layer of tragedy to the circumstances surrounding his untimely demise.
Born on July 26, 1991, in Manzanares, Caldas, Jiménez faced numerous challenges in his early life. After his mother separated from his abusive father, they moved to Bogotá to seek a better life. Before achieving fame, Jiménez worked grueling 15-hour shifts as a laborer in Corabastos, an experience that shaped his determination and artistry.
His breakthrough came in 2018 with the release of “Aventurero,” a hit that shattered records and established him as a leader in popular music. Jiménez’s performances reached unparalleled heights, including three sold-out shows at Bogotá’s Movistar Arena in 2024 and a historic concert at El Campín Stadium in 2025, making him the first Colombian artist to achieve such a milestone.
Yeison Jiménez is survived by his wife, Sonia Restrepo, and their three children, who now carry his legacy forward. As the music world mourns, his story remains a testament to resilience, hope, and the enduring power of dreams.
