The Christian community is mourning the loss of Alexander Wurm, 53, founder and CEO of the evangelical organization Ignite the Fire, and his 22-year-old daughter, Serena, who died Monday morning when their small plane crashed near Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The pair were en route to Jamaica, carrying relief supplies for victims of a recent hurricane.

According to authorities, the Beechcraft King Air aircraft took off from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport shortly after 10 a.m. and went down moments later, crashing into a residential neighborhood pond. Harrowing footage from nearby surveillance cameras captured the final moments of the plane before impact.

In a heartfelt statement, Ignite the Fire described the devastating loss as both deeply personal and spiritually profound. “Alexander, known for his warmth and unwavering kindness, devoted his life to serving others — both through his actions and by sharing the gospel of Jesus across the globe,” the ministry wrote on social media. “Throughout his life, Alex travelled extensively, reaching various countries and continents, where he tirelessly worked to bring faith, compassion, and support to those in need.”

The statement also paid tribute to Serena, calling her “a beacon of empathy and hope” who had embraced her father’s passion for humanitarian work. “Together, their final journey embodied selflessness and courage, reminding us of the power of service and love,” the ministry said.

Wurm founded Ignite the Fire with a mission to reach the unreached and equip believers for global evangelism. The ministry has supported communities in crisis worldwide, often coordinating on-the-ground relief efforts in response to natural disasters. Friends and fellow missionaries described him as a man of deep faith and action — someone who didn’t just talk about the Gospel, but lived it daily.

“They died doing what they loved most — serving others and sharing Jesus,” one ministry partner said. “Their legacy of love and faith will continue through the lives they touched.”

Federal investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said the plane was loaded with supplies bound for Jamaica and that a preliminary report will be released in the coming days.

As the faith community reels from the tragedy, many have taken to social media to honor the Wurms’ legacy. Photos shared by Ignite the Fire show the father and daughter at past mission trips, smiling with children in communities they helped rebuild.

“They didn’t hesitate to go where the need was greatest,” one tribute read. “Even in their final moments, they were on a mission of mercy.”

While the pain of their sudden loss is immeasurable, those who knew Alexander and Serena Wurm say they take comfort in knowing they are now home with the Savior they so faithfully served.