4 dead after small plane crash in water next to remote Alaska coastal town
A preliminary investigation determined that the plane 'had crashed into the water and was completely submerged,' according to the Alaska Department of Public Safety.
On Wednesday, a small plane carrying four individuals crashed into shallow waters near a remote coastal town in Alaska, resulting in the deaths of all passengers, according to officials. The Alaska State Troopers were alerted around 1:18 p.m. local time of the crash in Seldovia Slough, an area approximately 219 kilometers southwest of Anchorage. The Alaska Department of Public Safety, along with Wildlife Troopers from Anchor Point, quickly responded to the scene.
A preliminary investigation indicated that the Piper PA-24 aircraft, en route from Merrill Field Airport in Anchorage to Seldovia, had crashed into the water and was subsequently submerged. As the tide receded at 6:30 p.m. local time, troopers were able to recover the bodies of the four deceased adults from the wreckage. The bodies are currently being transported to the State Medical Examiner's Office for autopsy, with next of kin notification pending and potential release of the deceased's identities.
An NTSB investigator is on the scene to begin documenting the site and examining the aircraft, once recovery efforts are complete. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) expressed its commitment to investigating the incident, focusing on three primary areas: the pilot, the aircraft, and the operating environment.
U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska requested a briefing from the NTSB and the Federal Aviation Administration to determine the cause of the crash. He emphasized the importance of aviation safety and infrastructure in Alaska, stating that such tragedies are unacceptable and remain a top priority for him.
Just a week prior, another devastating crash occurred near Cape Newenham Long Range Radar Site Airport in Alaska, killing all eight individuals on board a charter plane operated by Security Aviation. The plane, a Cessna 411, had departed from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and was headed to Cape Newenham. U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Robert Davis, commander of Alaskan Command, expressed condolences for the loss and highlighted the dedication of the victims, whose families and friends now face an unwavering support from the military community.
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