Prince William of Wales penned an emotional message following the tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of a father and son at the Tsavo East National Park on Thursday, December 8.
In a statement dated Friday, December 9, Prince eulogised the plane's pilot, Mark Jenkins, who he stated was his personal friend.
He added that Mark had dedicated his time to protecting and conserving nature in Kenya and other East African countries.
While extending his condolences to Mark's family, Prince William stated that he admired his efforts in climate activism.
"Yesterday, I lost a friend, who dedicated his life to protecting wildlife in some of East Africa’s most renowned national parks. Mark Jenkins, and his son Peter, were tragically killed when flying over Tsavo National Park while conducting an aerial patrol," Prince William wrote.
"Tonight, I’m thinking about Mark’s wife, family and colleagues who’ve sadly lost a man we all loved and admired," he added.
The Prince of Wales met Mark after graduating from Eton College in 2000. Reports indicate that the deceased and Prince William remained in touch.
Mark reportedly took over from Prince William, who had made a name for participating in charity and conservation in 2005.
According to the Frankfurt Zoological Society's obituary, Mark and his son, Peter Jenkins, were conducting surveillance in Tsavo when their plane crashed.
However, it was not immediately established why the plane crashed.
"Passionate, principled, and strong-willed, Mark was never afraid to speak his mind and stand for what he believed in. He was a commanding presence and made an indelible impression wherever he went," the obituary read in part.
It continued, "those of us who worked alongside him remember him for his determination, thoughtfulness, his energy, his mischievous smile, and his deep love of wildlife and wild places."
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) pilot Roan Carr-Hartley, who rescued a 4-year-old boy stranded in Tsavo for six days, also mourned the duo. The pilot of the ill-fated plane was his cousin.
"They had a heart for people, very kind-hearted and committed...it's very unfortunate they have died such a painful death," Hartley wrote.
