José Suárez, who led Telemundo Fort Myers, dies in Kenya helicopter crash

José Alberto Suárez, the president and general manager of Telemundo 31, Telemundo 49 and Telemundo Fort Myers-Naples, died Wednesday in a helicopter crash in Kenya. He was 55. According to NBC Miami, Suárez was one of four Americans killed when the helicopter went down in Samburu County in northeastern Kenya. The station reported that Suárez had spent nearly two decades with Telemundo and NBC stations, leading multiple television markets across the country. Over a media career spanning more than 25 years, Suárez held leadership roles at several Telemundo stations, including Telemundo 33, Telemundo Fresno, Telemundo Las Vegas, Telemundo Utah and Telemundo San Antonio. The Florida native was recognized for helping expand Telemundo's presence in several markets during his 18 years with the company. Before becoming a station executive, Suárez worked at NBC Miami as director of creative services and programming. He also served as executive producer for entertainment programs and television specials. Earlier in his career, Suárez worked as a reporter and anchor at television stations in Florida, Ohio and Texas. His work earned numerous industry honors, including a Lone Star Emmy, a Suncoast Emmy, three Emmy Awards for Best Daily Newscast and several Associated Press awards. In a statement, NBCUniversal News Group Chairman Cesar Conde, NBCUniversal Local Chairman Valari Staab and Telemundo Station Group President Jose Cancela remembered Suárez as a dedicated leader and colleague. "We are heartbroken to learn the tragic news that José was killed in a helicopter accident in Kenya. José was an exceptional colleague who cared deeply about his teams, the communities they served and the important role our stations play in people's lives. He brought energy, humor, warmth and a strong sense of purpose to his work, and his impact was felt far beyond the stations he led. Our hearts are with his loved ones, and with all of José's colleagues and friends who are grieving this terrible loss." https://x.com/KenyaRedCross/status/2090059176873509223 DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV