A Civil Air Patrol plane crash in Colorado, US, on Saturday claimed two lives, including pilot and an aerial photographer. The incident occurred in Larimer County while the plane was on a routine training mission.
The deceased were identified as pilot Susan Wolber and aerial photographer Jay Rhoten, according to a statement from Colorado governor Jared Polis‘ office.The co-pilot, Randall Settergren, sustained injuries and was airlifted to a medical facility by the Colorado Army National Guard.
“I’m saddened to hear of the loss of two dedicated Civil Air Patrol members, Pilot Susan Wolber and aerial photographer Jay Rhoten, who lost their lives in today’s crash and my thoughts are with their families, friends and colleagues. These individuals, along with survivor co-pilot Randall Settergren, who was injured, served the Civil Air Patrol as volunteers who wanted to help make Colorado a better, safer place for all,” Polis posted on social media platform X.
The aircraft was engaged in a routine training mission at the time of the crash, according to major general Laura Clellan.
“The volunteers of Civil Air Patrol are a valuable part of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and the lifesaving work they do on a daily basis directly contributes to the public safety of Coloradans throughout the state. We are devastated to hear of the loss of Susan Wolber and Jay Rhoten, and the injury of Randall Settergren during a training mission in Larimer County,” said Clellan.
Clellan expressed grief for the victims’ families, saying, “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families of those involved in the crash.”
Polis also expressed his condolences, saying, “The State of Colorado is grateful for their commitment to service, and it will not be forgotten. I also want to thank the first responders who assisted with the rescue and recovery efforts.”
The Civil Air Patrol, a nonprofit organization and the official auxiliary of the US Air Force, is involved in various missions, including search and rescue operations.
