Christian Oliver, known by his real name Christian Klepser, and recognized for roles in films like "Speed Racer" and "Valkyrie," tragically lost his life Thursday, along with his two young daughters, in a small plane crash off a Caribbean island.

The owner and pilot of the aircraft, Robert Sachs, also perished in the crash. Oliver was 51 years old.

The "Speed Racer" actor was on the small plane with his daughters, who were 10 and 12 years old, and the plane's pilot, who also died. https://t.co/m5SjE19rCA

— Boston 25 News (@boston25) January 6, 2024

The details

The single-engine plane departed from J.F. Mitchell Airport in Bequia, part of the Caribbean nations of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, aiming for nearby St. Lucia when it crashed into the sea.

Among the fatalities were Oliver's daughters, Madita Klepser, 12, and Annik Klepser, 10.

"The aircraft encountered difficulties shortly after takeoff and plunged into the ocean," stated the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force. "Fishermen and divers from Paget Farm rushed to the scene by boat to provide assistance."

All four bodies have been recovered, officials confirmed. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Reports suggest the pilot signaled trouble to the tower just after takeoff and indicated an intention to return.

The investigation

The recovery of the four bodies was attributed to the collaborative and valiant efforts of Bequia's fishermen and divers, working in conjunction with the Saint Vincent and Grenadines Coast Guard.

The deceased were taken to Saint Vincent and transported to the Kingstown Mortuary. The police force conveyed that investigations into the incident are ongoing.

A few days before the tragic event, Christian Oliver shared a picturesque image of a beach on Instagram, extending New Year wishes to his followers "from somewhere in paradise."

His career

Oliver, born in Germany, worked alongside prominent figures such as Steven Soderbergh in "The Good German," Brian Singer and Tom Cruise in "Valkyrie," and in the 2008 film "Speed Racer" by the Wachowskis.

He also starred in the popular German action series "Alarm for Cobra 11" and made appearances in shows like "Saved By the Bell: The New Class."

His latest work was on "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny" in 2023, and he had recently completed filming for "Forever Hold Your Peace" with Bai Ling, directed by Nick Lyon.

The loss of the actor and his two daughters marks a sad moment for family, friends, fans and those in the entertainment industry familiar with his work.