Christian Oliver shared a photo before fatal Caribbean plane crash

BERLIN: Christian Oliver was enjoying "paradise" just days before he and his two young daughters were killed in a plane crash in the Caribbean, reported Page Six. On Monday, the 'Speed Racer' star shared a sunset photo on Instagram and expressed his excitement for the new year.

"Let love rule," the 51-year-old wrote atop the image. "Wishing all of you the best for 2024!" While Oliver was not in the photograph, numerous women, including two little girls, were in the shadows near the coastline. In the caption, Oliver wrote, "Greetings from somewhere in paradise! To community and love ... 2024 her[e] we come!"

According to Page Six, after news of the fatal crash made headlines on Friday, hundreds of fans rushed to the actor's social media pages to offer their condolences. "I hope your heaven is now your paradise...," one person commented.

"My sincere condolences to his family and to all who are affected by this tragedy," another wrote.

"A big hug for the children mom. I wouldn't dare to imagine your pain."

The actor, whose real name was Christian Klepser, was flying to St. Lucia with his 10-year-old daughter, Madita, and 12-year-old daughter, Annik, when they "plummeted into the ocean," according to the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police.

Robert Sachs, their pilot, also died in the crash. While it's unclear what happened, officials say the single-engine plane "experienced difficulties" just "moments after taking off" from Bequia.

Sachs reportedly radioed the control tower at Bequiaafter after noticing something was wrong and told them he was turning around, per Searchlight, a local outlet. However, that was the last point of contact made with the aircraft before residents saw it nosedive into the sea.

Several fishermen and divers raced out to save those on board, but all four bodies were discovered and proclaimed dead at the site. Oliver shared his two daughters with ex-wife Jessica Muroz.

The pair reportedly split in 2021. The German-born actor and producer was best known for his roles in "Saved by the Bell: The New Class," "Valkyrie" and "Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny."

He also teased several new projects before his passing, including the film "Forever Hold Your Peace" which he finished filming in December, reported Page Six.