Coral Springs plane crash victims remembered for decades of humanitarian work and dedication to helping others
Coral Springs, Florida – The tragic loss of Alexander Wurm, 53, and his daughter Serena, 22, in a small airplane crash Monday morning has left a community grieving but also reflecting on the extraordinary humanitarian legacy of the father-daughter duo. The pair, who were on a humanitarian mission to deliver aid to hurricane-stricken communities in Jamaica, were known for their deep faith and commitment to helping others.
Their final flight, departing from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, ended in tragedy shortly after takeoff when their Beechcraft King Air 100 went down near Coral Springs. Authorities have confirmed that both Alexander and Serena died in the crash. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have opened an investigation into the cause of the accident.
Alexander Wurm, widely recognized in his community as “Evangelist Wurm,” founded Ignite the Fire, an evangelical Christian ministry with a strong presence across the Caribbean. The ministry praised Wurm for his tireless dedication to humanitarian outreach, noting that he had traveled extensively to deliver aid, support faith-based initiatives, and empower communities in need.
“Throughout his life, Alex traveled extensively, reaching various countries and continents, where he tirelessly worked to bring faith, compassion, and support to those in need,” the ministry said in a statement. “His legacy of faith and compassion touched countless lives.”
Serena Wurm, a recent college graduate, had begun working closely with her father in the ministry. Described as “a beacon of empathy and hope,” she shared her father’s passion for humanitarian work and had already participated in multiple aid trips delivering essential food, water, and supplies to communities in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Ignite the Fire highlighted that Serena’s commitment to service was inspired by her father’s lifelong dedication to helping others.
Monday’s mission was part of an ongoing relief effort following Hurricane Melissa, the most powerful storm to strike Jamaica in decades. The hurricane has claimed at least 67 lives, including 28 in Jamaica alone, and has left thousands in urgent need of food, water, and other essentials. Alexander and Serena Wurm were en route to provide aid to these affected communities when the crash occurred.
The impact of their work extends beyond their immediate humanitarian missions. The family has been supported by their church community and friends, who have shared memories of the Wurms’ kindness, generosity, and faith. “As we honor their memory, may we continue their legacy of generosity, compassion, and faith,” the ministry wrote. “Their light endures in all whose lives they changed.”
Alexander Wurm leaves behind his wife, Candace, and two other children, James, 17, and Christiana, 20. The family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community during this difficult time. Members of Ignite the Fire and local churches have organized prayer vigils and memorials to celebrate the Wurms’ life and service.
The Coral Springs community continues to process the shock of the accident while remembering the positive impact of the Wurms’ humanitarian work. Their tireless commitment to service, faith, and compassion has inspired countless individuals, and their legacy is expected to continue through the ongoing work of Ignite the Fire and the many lives they touched throughout their missions.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, which occurred shortly after takeoff from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport. While details remain limited, officials have emphasized that safety investigations will be thorough and that updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
Even in the midst of tragedy, the memory of Alexander and Serena Wurm serves as a testament to the power of faith-driven service, showing how a commitment to helping others can leave a lasting mark on communities both near and far.
