Two aircrafts collide, killing seven people, among them a lawmaker
Tragedy occurred at the Soldotna Airport on Kenai Peninsula in Alaska, United States, when two aircraft collided in mid-air, killing seven people, including Gary Knopp, Alaska House of Representative, Anchorage Daily News reports.
The lawmaker was the only occupant in one of the planes, while the other aircraft involved in the crash was a single-engine de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver that carried six people.
With the exception of one person that succumbed to injuries during transportation to the local hospital, all the other ones were confirmed deceased on the scene.
Already positive identity had been made on all occupants of both aircraft, and next of kin notifications have been made.
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Knopp, who was a certified flight instructor and registered pilot, was elected to the Alaska Legislature in 2016 after serving on the Kenai Borough Assembly.
He was a candidate in the 2020 Republican primary for House District 30.
Alaska Governor, Mike Dunleavy, in his reaction , described Knopp as a skilled pilot, and a dedicated public servant.
According to him: “Throughout his 42 years on the Kenai Peninsula, Gary became well known as an avid outdoorsman, a skilled pilot, and a dedicated public servant.
“His presence will no doubt be missed by those he faithfully served.”
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