Civil Air Patrol Plane Crash in Colorado Claims Two Lives, Injures One

A Civil Air Patrol plane crash in Larimer County, Colorado, on Saturday claimed the lives of pilot Susan Wolber and aerial photographer Jay Rhoten, while co-pilot Randall Settergren sustained injuries and was airlifted to a medical facility by the Colorado Army National Guard.

The aircraft was conducting a routine training mission at the time of the crash. Governor Jared Polis expressed gratitude for the service of the Civil Air Patrol members and commended first responders for their rescue and recovery efforts.

The Civil Air Patrol, a nonprofit auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, operates 550 aircraft and performs critical missions including inland search and rescue, homeland security, disaster relief, and drug interdiction. It is credited with saving an average of 70 lives annually.

This tragic incident highlights the risks faced by those dedicated to public service and the essential role of the Civil Air Patrol in supporting federal, state, and local agencies.

Source: AP News