Speed Racer actor Christian Oliver and daughters killed in plane crash
Christian Oliver, his two daughters, and their pilot were killed in a crash in the Caribbean on Thursday
Christian Oliver, an actor known for roles in Speed Racer and The Good German, was killed in the crash of a small plane on Thursday alongside his two daughters, according to reports. Local authorities confirmed that the plane was headed to St. Lucia from F Mitchell Airport in Bequia, a Caribbean island within St. Vincent and the Grenadines when it went down. Four bodies were recovered from the scene of the crash, including Oliver, 51, his daughters Madita, 10, and Annik, 12, and pilot Robert Sachs.
According to Deadline, Sachs “radioed the tower shortly after takeoff reporting he was experiencing trouble and was turning back.” A statement from law enforcement confirms that “the aircraft experienced difficulties and nose-dived into the ocean” not long after takeoff. “Fishermen and divers from Paget Farm went to the scene of the incident in their boats to render assistance,” the statement adds. The Coast Guard recovered the bodies and the passengers and pilot were pronounced dead before being taken to the Kingstown Mortuary on St. Vincent.
The cause of the crash has not yet been determined. “The RSVGPF expresses condolences to all who are negatively affected by this tragic incident,” reads the statement from local law enforcement. “The RSVGPF will update the public as more information is gathered. Investigation into the matter continues.”
Oliver, born Christian Klepser, began his career as Brian Keller on Saved By The Bell: The New Class. He worked as an actor in both his home country of Germany as well as the United States, notably appearing in Steven Soderbergh’s The Good German as well as films like Speed Racer and Valkyrie. He was remembered on social media by friends and co-stars alike, including actor Bai Ling, who had been working with him on the film Forever Hold Your Peace at the end of 2023. “He was so nice, works so hard and such a brave actor and a beautiful gentle person,” she wrote in part. “[Dear] Christian may your soul Rest In Peace , Sending love To your families.”