A Civil Air Patrol plane crashed during a training exercise in northern Colorado on Saturday, resulting in two fatalities and one injury, according to authorities.
The Cessna 182 aircraft went down in Larimer County while participating in a search and rescue training session, as confirmed by a Civil Air Patrol news release.
The Civil Air Patrol, an auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force and a nonprofit organization, operates across the Rocky Mountain region in Colorado. Its missions include search and rescue operations to locate lost hikers, hunters, and downed aircraft, as well as transporting emergency personnel and medical supplies.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of two dedicated Civil Air Patrol members, pilot Susan Wolber and aerial photographer Jay Rhoten, who tragically lost their lives in today’s crash. My thoughts are with their families, friends, and colleagues,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis in a statement.
The plane's co-pilot was also injured in the crash and was airlifted by the Colorado Army National Guard to a medical facility for treatment, according to Governor Polis' statement.
The passengers on board had been volunteers with the Civil Air Patrol, committed to making Colorado a safer place, the governor added. “The State of Colorado is grateful for their service, and their dedication will not be forgotten.”
The crash occurred in a remote area of Storm Mountain around 11:12 a.m., as reported by the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the incident, with CNN reaching out to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to confirm whether it is also conducting a probe.
The cause of the crash remains unclear, but the Civil Air Patrol stated it would fully cooperate with the NTSB’s investigation to uncover the details.
Maj. Gen. Laura Clellan, who oversees Colorado’s relationship with the Civil Air Patrol, expressed her devastation over the loss on Saturday.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the families of those involved in the crash. I would also like to express my gratitude to the first responders who helped with the rescue efforts,” Clellan said.
Maj. Gen. Regena Aye, national commander of the Civil Air Patrol, shared her sympathies: “Our deepest condolences go out to the families, members, and friends affected by this tragic event. Our members serve because they care deeply about America’s communities. Our people are our most valuable resource, and we are committed to ensuring their safety and security.”