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TSB Investigating Fatal Plane Crash On Saturday.

Tuesday, 5 September 2017 13:53

Transportation Safety Board says one of two planes crashed into mountain near Russell Creek, killing the pilot.

Yukon Coroner’s Service was advised of a downed aircraft with a confirmed fatality shortly after 6:30 pm on Saturday, September 2, 2017. Faro detachment of the RCMP were on-scene at the time of the notification. The wreckage was located in the Mount Menzi area approximately 32 miles north of Faro.

Initial investigation reveals that two males had left Whitehorse at 11:30 Saturday morning flying separate aircraft. They were planning a 3 day hunting trip to Russell Creek 40 miles north of Faro . The aircraft were flying VFR (Visual Flight Rules) and the intent was to go direct to Russell Creek however weather dictated a more westerly route over lower terrain. The downed aircraft last had contact with the second aircraft at ca. 1:20 pm. When the aircraft did not show up at Russell Creek the first aircraft back tracked and located the downed aircraft near Menzi Mountain at 2:30 pm.

The deceased is identified as 31 year old Justin KOLLA of Whitehorse. He had been flying a model 7GCBC Citabria which was registered privately in his name.

Yukon Coroner’s Service continues our investigation in partnership with the Transportation Safety Board of Canada.

Yukon Coroner’s Service extends our condolences to the family and friends of Justin KOLLA.

(Yukon Coroner)

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