Débora Estrella tragically died in a plane crash: The last 3 photos and the reason she took that flight

The last hours of Débora Estrella and the flight that would seal her fate: a chapter that began with illusion and learning, but ended up becoming the news that shocked her colleagues and followers.

Her recent posts captured glimpses of her everyday life and a passion she was just beginning to explore. What seemed like any other day became the unexpected close to a distinguished career in journalism.

The images she shared shortly before boarding the aircraft left an indelible mark on her followers. Accompanied by brief, straightforward captions, they now carry a different weight in light of what happened

The accident in García, Nuevo León

On the afternoon of September 20, 2025, a light aircraft crashed in the Ciudad Mitras Industrial Park, in the municipality of García, Nuevo León, Mexico. The crash ocurred around 6:50 p.m., resulting in the death of two people: journalist Débora Estrella and pilot Bryan Leonardo Ballesteros Argueta.

According to Nuevo León Civil Protection, the aircraft, bearing registration XB-BGH, suddenly went down near the Pesquería River. Despite the immediate response from rescue teams, the deaths of both occupants could not be prevented.

The Mayor of García, Manuel Guerra Cavazos, the incident at the scene and explained that they were waiting for forensic services to recover the bodies.

He added: "I regret to inform you that I am at the site. The crash of a light aircraft has been confirmed, with two fatalities—apparently a woman and a man".

Débora Estrella's career

Débora Estrella, 43, had been the anchor of the "Telediario Matutino" in Monterrey since 2018 and also appeared on "Milenio Televisión" and the "Telediario Ciudad de México" on Canal 6.

She was born in Monterrey on August 7, 1982, and began her career at "Frecuencia Tec", the radio program of ITESM, where she studied Law. She also worked for companies such as PepsiCo, Grupo Lomex, and Sigma before establishing her presence at Grupo Multimedios.

The television station said: "At MULTIMEDIOS, we are deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of our colleague. Débora Estrella, 43, had been the anchor of the 'Telediario Matutino' in Monterrey since 2018. She also hosted segments on Milenio Televisión and the “Telediario Ciudad de México” on Canal 6 during the weekends".

They added: "Débora passed away on Saturday, September 20, in a light aircraft accident in the municipality of García, Nuevo León. We extend our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones. Rest in peace, colleague".

The last three photos she shared

Hours before the tragedy, Débora shared three Instagram Stories that are now seen as her final posts.

In one of them, she appeared wearing a short-sleeved, military-green outfit, accompanied by the caption: "TOP GUN Look".

In another, she was shown reclining in a hoodie worn backwards, and wrote: "What no one tells about TV studios... they're always FREEZING".

The final photo showed a white light aircraft with the CEAM logo on the door, parked on the runway, accompanied by the caption "Guess what...?" and the location "Del Norte International Airport."

These posts reflected both her approachable style and the excitement of embarking on a new personal experience.

The reason she took that flight

The following day, it was revealed that Débora had begun taking flight lessons with the goal of obtaining a pilot's license. During a special program, her colleague Víctor Martínez recalled:

"We were talking and she said to me: 'I'm starting to fly, to learn a little bit about it. One day we'll fly'".

Martínez noted that the anchor had shared this project with her close circle and that they had even made plans to fly together in the future. Her desire to learn to pilot was part of her new interests, alongside her already well-known passion for horses.

In previous months, she had posted photos on social media of helicopter rides over Monterrey, reflecting the growing interest she was developing in aviation.

Pilot Bryan Ballesteros

The second victim was identified as Bryan Leonardo Ballesteros Argueta, pilot of the aircraft. Reports indicate that he worked as an aviator and had served as a First Officer for airlines. Authorities are investigating the flight logs and operational permits to clarify the circumstances of the accident.

The technical investigation will be crucial in determining whether mechanical failure, human error, or external factors played a role. In the meantime, both the aviation and media communities mourn the loss of the two occupants.

Reactions from colleagues and the media

Débora's passing prompted numerous messages from the journalism community. César García, a colleague at Multimedios, wrote: "Today my heart is shattered… Débora Estrella is now in heaven. You have no idea how much it hurts knowing I will no longer see you every weekend and be cheered by your smile and joy. I will carry you always in my heart, mind, and soul. I will remember you forever with all my heart".

Carlos Zúñiga said: "I am deeply saddened to have to say goodbye in this way to my friend and colleague Débora Estrella. A true professional in every sense of the word, but an even better person, daughter, and sister. Her passing hurts deeply. My thoughts are with her family, friends, and colleagues at Multimedios. Rest in peace".

These messages reflected both the human and professional impact of her legacy in television and journalism in Nuevo León.

Reactions from users

The audience also shared their feelings on social media, highlighting her professionalism and approachability. “I'm in shock. I used to watch the morning news because she was so fun and professional, and it made me laugh every time she stumbled and read the same story again. I'll believe that she fulfilled her mission on Earth; she was someone who lit up wherever she went", commented an user.

"A talented anchor with elegance, a stunning and beautiful woman—may Débora Estrella rest in peace. Wishing strength and comfort to her family and to GRUPO MULTIMEDIOS TV CANAL 6. Sincerely, El Meny" , wrote another. "I always told my family, Débora is my favorite for that 12:00 a.m. news segment; I wanted you as the lead anchor, so beautiful and down to earth. Fly high," expressed someone else.

"Sad news, super beautiful and charismatic, we're just a fleeting moment!", was another comment. The reactions show the appreciation of the viewers, who accompanied her daily and today deeply regret her death.

A farewell marked by memories and learnings

Débora Estrella’s passing left a mark on journalism in Monterrey and on her audience. Her final posts, the reason for her flight, and the messages from colleagues and followers help piece together the last moments of a figure who made a lasting impact on television in Nuevo León.

Investigations into the accident are ongoing, while friends and colleagues remember her with affection and respect. Her story reflects how personal aspirations can coexist with life's unexpected turns.