Representative Gary Knopp died in a plane crash involving two aircraft on Friday. The collision took place approximately two miles northeast of Soldotna Airport this morning, near the Sterling Highway.
KSRM News arrived on-scene at approximately 9:30 a.m. where Alaska State Troopers confirmed that the collision involved two aircraft, with at least seven individuals on-board. They said responders were in “recovery mode.” A Guardian Flight medevac helicopter was seen leaving the scene at 10:00 a.m.
Knopp worked for many years as a general contractor and entered public service in 2006 when he was elected to the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly, a position he held until 2012. Gary was elected to represent House District 30 in 2016, and is currently on the Republican primary ballot for re-election on August 18.
Kenai Mayor Brian Gabriel: “The loss of Representative Knopp this morning was both sudden and shocking. The City of Kenai is forever grateful to Gary for his service to the City in the State legislature as well as our Representative on the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly. His service was defined by always doing what he felt was in the best interest of our residents. Our sympathies and prayers go out to his wife Helen and family as well as the other victims and their families of this terrible tragedy.”
Representative Ben Carpenter: “Gary and I, our politics separated us at times, but our humanity binds us. It is an unfortunate day for all Alaskans when we lose another one our people to a plane crash. It’s a reality we face because we travel so much in small planes. It’s unfortunate and sad every time it happens. My prayers go out to his family. We should surround each other with love at times like this.”
Representative Sarah Vance: “I am still in shock about the news of the flight accident today. It is reported that 7 people have died today. It is a sad day for the Kenai Peninsula. My heart and prayers go out to the friends and family of Rep. Gary Knopp and other families involved. May the peace of God bring us all peace and comfort during this time of grief.”
Senator Peter Micciche: “We live in a small, tight community here in the Central Peninsula. When I heard the horrific sounds of a plane crash this morning, which occurred very close to my home, I knew it was a high probability that it involved someone we all knew well. My family and I are heartbroken to learn of the loss of Representative Gary Knopp, Greg Bell and the other lost souls due to this morning’s collision. Our hearts and prayers go out to Helen Knopp and the Bell Family, as well as the other involved families. We are still in shock to learn of the loss and the significant impacts to our community and our state. I have known Gary Knopp and Greg Bell for most of my life. Gary has served the Kenai Peninsula community for decades. I have flown with Greg and never felt to be in better, more safety-focused hands while in the air. We are reeling from the loss in our community. Please keep the Knopp and Bell families in your prayers.”
Governor Mike Dunleavy: “The First Lady and I wish to express our heartfelt condolences to Representative Knopp’s family as they mourn his untimely passing. 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. I have ordered the United States flag and Alaska state flag to be flown at half-staff in honor of Representative Knopp for three days beginning immediately and ending at sunset on Monday, August 3.”
House Speaker Bryce Edgmon: “I’m devastated and shocked to learn of the crash that claimed Gary Knopp’s life. Gary was a one-of-a-kind leader and a true Alaskan who worked tirelessly for his district in the Legislature. He will be missed by many.”
Gary Knopp was born in Whitefish, Montana and moved to Alaska in 1979. He spent time living in Anchorage and Sterling before eventually settling in Kenai with his wife Helen.
This is a developing story. Details will be posted when made available.
