People and Events on September 16, 2007

No famous people were born on this date, but there may be notable events you would find interesting below.

A Confluence of Tragedy and Triumph: September 16th, 2007

On this fateful day, a series of events unfolded that would leave an indelible mark on the global consciousness. September 16th, 2007, was a day of devastating loss, catastrophic errors, and, amidst the chaos, a few beacons of hope and celebration.

Tragedy in the Skies

One-Two-GO Airlines Flight 269, a McDonnell Douglas MD-82, crashed during its approach to Phuket International Airport in Thailand, claiming the lives of 89 people on board. The disaster marked one of the deadliest aviation accidents in Thai history, leaving a trail of grief and heartbreak in its wake.

Blackwater Guard Controversy

In another part of the world, a separate tragedy was unfolding in Nisour Square, Baghdad. Blackwater Guards, a private security firm, opened fire on a crowded square, killing 17 Iraqi civilians and injuring numerous others. The incident sparked widespread outrage, precipitating a thorough investigation and scrutiny of the role of private security contractors in conflict zones.

Celebrating Legendary Lives

Amidst the turmoil, September 16th, 2007, also marked the birthdays of two extraordinary individuals who left an indelible mark on their respective fields. American actor, Lane Smith, known for his iconic roles in Vulture and The Days and Nights of Molly Dodd, celebrated his 69th birthday. Meanwhile, Nick Griffin, the former leader of the British National Party, turned 49.

A Tribute to Enduring Legacies

This day also marked the passing of several notable figures, whose contributions continue to inspire and influence generations to come. Luciano Pavarotti, the legendary Italian operatic tenor, succumbed to pancreatic cancer at the age of 71. His legacy as a champion of classical music and a humanitarian lives on. Robert Jordan, the celebrated author of the fantasy series The Wheel of Time, lost his battle with amyloidosis at 58. His epic saga continues to captivate readers worldwide.

A Glimpse of Hope

As the world grappled with the consequences of tragedy and loss, a few glimmers of hope emerged. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its fourth assessment report, underscoring the imperative of collective action to combat climate change. This landmark document served as a clarion call to nations, galvanizing efforts to mitigate the far-reaching consequences of global warming.

Though September 16th, 2007, was a day marred by tragedy and turmoil, it also bore witness to the indomitable human spirit, which continues to persevere and strive for a better tomorrow.

Noteworthy Events on this Day:
18 years ago
Blackwater Guards Kill 17 Iraqi Civilians in Nisour Square (Nisour Square, Baghdad, Iraq) 2007
Security guards working for Blackwater Worldwide, a private military contractor, unleashed a hail of bullets in Nisour Square, Baghdad, killing 17 Iraqi civilians and wounding many more. The chaotic scene unfolded when a convoy carrying US State Department officials arrived at the square, and the Blackwater guards, tasked with protecting the convoy, mistakenly believed they were under attack. Panicked, they fired indiscriminately into the crowded square, leaving a trail of death and destruction in their wake. The incident sparked outrage and controversy, raising questions about the role of private military contractors in Iraq and the lack of accountability for their actions.
18 years ago
One-Two-GO Airlines Flight 269 crashes in Thailand (Phuket, Thailand) 2007
Tragedy struck in the skies over Thailand as One-Two-GO Airlines Flight 269, a MD-82 aircraft, careened out of control and crashed onto the runway at Phuket International Airport, spewing flames and smoke everywhere. On board, 130 terrified passengers and crew members were fighting for their lives as the plane, which had taken off from Bangkok, struggled to make an emergency landing. In the aftermath, a devastating 90 people lost their lives, leaving families and loved ones to pick up the pieces of an unimaginable tragedy.