Telemundo executive José Alberto Suárez died on Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026, following a helicopter accident in Samburu County, Kenya, according to a statement from Telemundo. Suárez, 55, was serving on vacation in the northeastern region of the country when the crash occurred.
Tragic Accident in Kenya
The crash in Samburu County claimed the lives of five Americans, including Suárez, Telemundo announced in a statement released on Aug. 19, 2026. Suárez served as the president and general manager of Telemundo 31, Telemundo 49, and Telemundo Ft. Myers-Naples.
Tributes from NBCU Leadership
In a joint statement, NBCU News Group President César Conde, NBCU Local President Valari Staab, and Telemundo Station Group President José Cancela expressed deep sorrow regarding the loss of the veteran journalist. The executives described Suárez as an exceptional colleague and a mentor to many within the industry.
Professional Legacy and Impact
The leadership team noted that Suárez was deeply committed to his staff, the communities his stations served, and the essential role his stations played in people's lives. The statement added that he brought energy, warmth, a sense of humor, and a strong sense of purpose to his professional work, leaving an impact that extended far beyond the specific stations he managed.
Extensive Media Career
Suárez's career in the media industry spanned more than 25 years. Before his recent leadership roles in Florida, he served as president for several other stations, including Telemundo 33, Telemundo Fresno, Telemundo Las Vegas, Telemundo Utah, and Telemundo San Antonio.
Leadership and Background
Prior to his tenure at NBCUniversal, Suárez held various leadership positions in programming, digital media, and creativity at Telemundo Station Group, NBC6, and Telemundo 51 in Miami. He spent 18 years working with Telemundo and NBC stations. Before joining NBCUniversal, he worked as a journalist and presenter for various media outlets in Florida, Ohio, and Texas.
Awards and Recognition
A Florida native, Suárez was recognized for his visionary leadership and his commitment to the expansion and growth of Telemundo markets. Throughout his career, he earned multiple professional accolades, including a Lone Star Emmy, a Suncoast Emmy, three Emmys for Best Daily News, and several awards from the Associated Press.
Future Honors
Outside of his professional life, Suárez was known to be a car enthusiast and a photography hobbyist, according to his X account. Telemundo has indicated it will release further information in the coming days regarding how the company intends to honor the life and legacy of Suárez.
