A tragic incident occurred on Saturday in northern Colorado when a Civil Air Patrol plane crashed during a search and rescue training exercise, resulting in the loss of two lives and one person sustaining injuries. The aircraft, a Cessna 182, went down in Larimer County, Colorado, with the crash claiming the lives of Pilot Susan Wolber and aerial photographer Jay Rhoten.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed his condolences, stating, 'I’m saddened to hear of the loss of two dedicated Civil Air Patrol members...my thoughts are with their families, friends, and colleagues.' The co-pilot of the plane was injured in the crash and was airlifted to a medical facility for treatment by the Colorado Army National Guard.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the incident to determine the cause of the crash, while the Civil Air Patrol has pledged to cooperate fully with the investigation. Major General Laura Clellan, overseeing the Colorado Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event and extended condolences to the families affected.
The Civil Air Patrol, an auxiliary of the US Air Force and a nonprofit organization, plays a vital role in search-and-rescue operations in the Rocky Mountain region. Major General Regena Aye, national commander of Civil Air Patrol, emphasized the organization's commitment to the safety and security of its members and expressed sympathy for those impacted by the crash.
As details continue to emerge about the circumstances surrounding the crash, the entire Civil Air Patrol community mourns the loss of two dedicated individuals who selflessly served in the pursuit of making Colorado a safer place for all.
