A plane crash involving two aircraft just outside Soldotna has resulted in the deaths of seven people according to an online trooper dispatch released Friday.
One plane had a single occupant, the other plane had six occupants. All were confirmed deceased on scene except for one person that succumbed to injuries during transport to the local hospital. Positive identity has been made on all occupants of both aircraft and next of kin notifications have been made.
Passengers were identified as follows: Rep. Gary Knopp, age 67, of Kenai, was the sole occupant of one plane. The six occupants of the other plane are identified as Pilot Gregory Bell, age 57 of Soldotna; Guide David Rogers, age 40 of Kansas; Caleb Hulsey, age 26, of South Carolina; Heather Hulsey, age 25 of South Carolina; Mackay Hulsey, age 24, of South Carolina; Kirstin Wright, age 23, of South Carolina.
Alaska State Troopers in Soldotna received a report of a plane crash involving two aircraft near mile 91.5 of the Sterling Highway, at approximately 8:27 a.m on Friday.
According to Trooper Dispatch, due to safety concerns and some debris on the roadway, the Sterling Highway was temporarily closed early Friday morning. The majority of the wreckage was located approximately two hundred yards from the road.
The crash was reported by multiple witnesses. Alaska State Troopers, Alaska Wildlife Troopers, Soldotna Police Department, Central EMS, State Parks, and Federal Aviation Administration all responded to the crash site.
The National Transportation Safety Board has been notified and will be conducting the investigation as to the cause of this crash.
This is a developing story. Details will be posted when made available.