A tragic plane crash in the southern Brazilian city of Gramado has left 10 people dead and 17 others injured. The small plane crashed shortly after taking off from Canela Airport, hitting a building under construction, a furniture store, and a hotel. Most of the injuries were due to smoke inhalation from the resulting fire. The victims were all members of the same family, and it is unclear if there were any other passengers on board. Two of the injured are in serious condition and are being transferred to a hospital in Porto Alegre.
Gov. Eduardo Leite expressed his regret over the accident and praised the quick response of emergency services in rescuing the victims and controlling the scene. An investigation by the Civil Police and the Center for the Investigation and Prevention of Aeronautical Accidents is underway to determine the causes of the crash. The General Institute of Forensics is working to identify the victims.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva extended his condolences to the families of the victims and assured that the Air Force is investigating the accident. The federal government is providing support to the state government and local authorities to clarify the situation. The community is mourning the loss of those who perished in the tragic incident as efforts continue to investigate and understand what caused the crash.
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