GILLETTE, Wyo. — A plane crash in a remote area of northeastern Wyoming caused an unspecified number of fatalities and sparked a wildfire, authorities said Friday.
The plane crashed at about 1 p.m. north of the town of Gillette near the Wyoming state line, Campbell County officials said in a social media post. The number of fatalities was not immediately released.
A distress signal was sent out by the plane before the crash, Campbell County Undersheriff Quentin Reynolds told the Gillette News Record. Callers later reported seeing smoke columns rising into the air near the suspected crash site, he said.
The wildfire that resulted from the crash was being suppressed using aircraft, heavy equipment and engine crews, officials said.
The National Transportation Safety Board was dispatching a team to investigate, local officials said.
Federal investigators were not yet on the scene of the remote crash site as of Friday evening, NTSB spokesperson Keith Holloway said. More information was expected to be released Saturday.
A spokesperson for Campbell County could not be reached immediately for further comment.
A tragic plane crash in northern Wyoming has resulted in fatalities and sparked a wildfire, adding to the devastation caused by the accident. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when a small aircraft crashed in a remote area near the town of Cody.
According to reports from local authorities, the plane was carrying four passengers, all of whom have been confirmed dead. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that the aircraft may have experienced mechanical issues before going down.
In addition to the loss of life, the crash also ignited a wildfire in the surrounding area. The fire quickly spread through the dry vegetation, fueled by strong winds and difficult terrain. Firefighters have been working tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading further.
The crash and resulting wildfire have had a significant impact on the local community, with residents expressing shock and sadness over the tragic events. The loss of life is always a devastating blow, and the added destruction caused by the wildfire only compounds the tragedy.
As investigations into the crash continue, authorities are urging caution in the area to prevent further accidents or injuries. The safety of both residents and emergency responders is paramount as efforts are made to extinguish the wildfire and recover any remaining wreckage from the crash site.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with air travel and the potential for unforeseen accidents to occur. It also highlights the bravery and dedication of first responders who put their lives on the line to protect others in times of crisis.
Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this tragic event. May they find comfort and strength in the midst of this difficult time.
