Rebel Wallace
Eric Lee Sarchet
The National Transportation Safety Board traveled to the scene of this accident.
Additional Participating Entities:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Spokane, Washington
North Wing Inc; Chelan, Washington
Aviation Accident Factual Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf
Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board: https://dms.ntsb.gov/pubdms
http://registry.faa.gov/N492XB
Location: Chelan, WA
Accident Number: WPR17FA139
Date & Time: 07/01/2017, 0730 PDT
Registration: N492XB
Aircraft: NORTH WING UUM INC SPORT X2 912
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight
Injuries: 2 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal
On July 1, 2017, about 0730 Pacific daylight time, a North Wing Scout XC light sport weight-shift-control (WSC) aircraft, N492XB, was destroyed when it impacted mountainous terrain while maneuvering near Chelan, Washington. The flight instructor and student pilot sustained fatal injuries. The aircraft was owned by the flight instructor who was operating it under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident, and no flight plan was filed for the local flight, which originated from Lake Chelan Airport (S10), Chelan, Washington, about 0630.
A review of video obtained from an onboard camera revealed that, earlier that morning, the student pilot completed a checkride to obtain a sport pilot certificate. The instructor informed the student pilot that he completed the checkride successfully. They subsequently departed again and continued to fly in the local area. Video showed that the pilots stayed in the traffic pattern before departing to the east. As the aircraft continued to climb away from the airport, the pilots discussed finding an area with less turbulence. About 19 minutes after takeoff for the accident flight, the instructor took over the flight controls and began to demonstrate a spiral dive. As he entered the maneuver, the aircraft's bank angle increased, and the aircraft rotated nearly 360° with its nose pointing straight down. The video stopped recording upon impact.
Pilot Information
Certificate: Flight Instructor; Private
Age: 70, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Rear
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): Sport Pilot
Toxicology Performed: Yes
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 04/19/2016
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: 6000 hours (Total, all aircraft), 3012.9 hours (Total, this make and model)
Student Pilot Information
Certificate: Student
Age: 48, Male
Airplane Rating(s): None
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: Yes
Medical Certification: None
Last FAA Medical Exam:
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:
The instructor, age 70, held a private pilot certificate with an airplane single-engine land rating and a flight instructor certificate for light sport aircraft. The pilot was issued a third-class Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airman medical certificate on April 19, 2016, with a limitation that he must have available glasses for near vision. On the application for that medical certificate, the pilot reported 6,000 total hours of flight experience, of which 100 hours were in the previous six months. A review of the pilot's logbook revealed that he accumulated a total of 3,012.9 hours in the WSC trike category.
The student, age 48, held a student pilot certificate and was not required to possess an FAA airman medical certificate. The student's logbooks were not available for review, and his flight experience could not be determined.
Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information
Aircraft Make: NORTH WING UUM INC
Registration: N492XB
Model/Series: SPORT X2 912 NO SERIES
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2014
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: LS9014
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats:
Date/Type of Last Inspection:
Certified Max Gross Wt.:
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines:
Airframe Total Time:
Engine Manufacturer:
ELT:
Engine Model/Series:
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power:
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None
The aircraft was manufactured in 2014 and purchased by the instructor in May 2017. The aircraft's maintenance records were not located and its maintenance history could not be determined.
The aircraft was equipped with a Rotax 912 series, 80-horsepower reciprocating engine. The engine was situated behind the rear seat in a pusher-type arrangement. The engine was electronically controlled and drove a 3-blade composite propeller.
The primary pilot station was the front seat. The rear seat occupant has no access to instruments. Both front and rear seat occupants had access to the control bar. Evidence suggest that the pilot occupied the rear seat and the student the front seat.
Meteorological Information and Flight Plan
Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KEAT, 1229 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 34 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1455 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 203°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility: 10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 11 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: /
Wind Direction: 310°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: /
Altimeter Setting: 29.91 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 24°C / 9°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: CHELAN, WA (S10)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: CHELAN, WA (S10)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time:
Type of Airspace: Class G
The 0655 automated observation at Pangborn Memorial Airport (EAT), Wenatchee, Washington, about 35 miles southwest of the accident site, included wind from 310° at 11 knots, 10 miles visibility, temperature 24°C, dew point 9°C, and an altimeter setting of 29.91 inches of mercury.
Wreckage and Impact Information
Crew Injuries: 2 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude: 47.920278, -119.869722
The aircraft impacted terrain near the top of a hill in mountainous, rocky terrain and was destroyed by impact forces. The wreckage debris path was oriented on a heading about 130° magnetic. The first identified point of contact (FIPC) was a rock about 25 ft below the summit of the hill. The FIPC was characterized by an area of disturbed dirt surrounded by debris, including the front steering fork and the brake reservoir. A portion of the canopy was located left of the FPIC. The main wreckage, including most of the airframe, the engine, the wing, main landing gear, and propeller, was located about 50 ft from the FIPC on a heading of 320°, indicating that, following the impact, it rolled down the hill. One propeller blade was fractured and located about 30 ft north of the main wreckage. The rear seat was located within the main wreckage; the front seat was located along the debris path. Multiple separations throughout the flight control system were observed. All fracture surfaces were consistent with overload.
The engine cylinders, crankcase and overhead components were intact and displayed no evidence of catastrophic failure. Disassembly and examination of the engine revealed no evidence of abnormal wear or failure of internal components. Negligible impact damage was noted to the crankcase, reduction gear case, cylinders, and accessory section. Rocker arm, valve train, and accessory gear continuity was established by rotating the engine crankshaft by hand. All four cylinders developed pressure when the crankshaft was rotated. Internal examination of the pistons and cylinders using a lighted borescope revealed no anomalies. The piston faces and cylinder bores were clear and undamaged. The spark plugs were removed and displayed normal wear signatures. Impact damage was noted to both carburetors and the ignition system. Examination of the engine revealed no evidence of a preimpact mechanical malfunction or failure.
Medical And Pathological Information
The King County Medical Examiner, Seattle, Washington, performed an autopsy of the flight instructor and the student pilot. The cause of death for both individuals was listed as multiple blunt force injuries.
The FAA Bioaeronatical Sciences Research Laboratory, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, performed toxicology on specimens from the instructor and the student pilot. Testing of specimens from the instructor detected ethanol in muscle and brain, propanol in muscle, and atorvastatin in liver. Ethanol is the intoxicant commonly found in beer, wine, and liquor. Ethanol may also be produced in body tissues by microbial activity after death. Atorvastatin (often called Lipitor) is a cholesterol-lowering agent. The drug is not considered impairing. The tests for cyanide and carbon monoxide were not performed. Testing of specimens of the student pilot detected ethanol in muscle but not in liver; no drugs were detected in muscle. The tests for cyanide and carbon monoxide were not performed.
Additional Information
Recovery from a Steep-banked Spiral Dive
According to the Weight-Shift Control Aircraft Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-5) Addendum, the purpose of practicing a steep spiral dive is to "build recognition of and a reflexive response to a steep-banked spiraling dive. Start all practice at an altitude that will permit a recovery at no lower than 1,000 feet above the ground (AGL). An altitude of at least 2,500 AGL is recommended…The pilot must be careful not to stall the aircraft or exceed airspeed limitations at all times."
Location: Chelan, WA
Accident Number: WPR17FA139
Date & Time: 07/01/2017, 0730 PDT
Registration: N492XB
Aircraft: NORTH WING UUM INC SPORT X2 912
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight
Injuries: 2 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal
On July 1, 2017, about 0730 Pacific daylight time, a North Wing Scout XC light sport weight-shift-control (WSC) aircraft, N492XB, was destroyed when it impacted mountainous terrain while maneuvering near Chelan, Washington. The flight instructor and student pilot sustained fatal injuries. The aircraft was owned by the flight instructor who was operating it under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident, and no flight plan was filed for the local flight, which originated from Lake Chelan Airport (S10), Chelan, Washington, about 0630.
A review of video obtained from an onboard camera revealed that, earlier that morning, the student pilot completed a checkride to obtain a sport pilot certificate. The instructor informed the student pilot that he completed the checkride successfully. They subsequently departed again and continued to fly in the local area. Video showed that the pilots stayed in the traffic pattern before departing to the east. As the aircraft continued to climb away from the airport, the pilots discussed finding an area with less turbulence. About 19 minutes after takeoff for the accident flight, the instructor took over the flight controls and began to demonstrate a spiral dive. As he entered the maneuver, the aircraft's bank angle increased, and the aircraft rotated nearly 360° with its nose pointing straight down. The video stopped recording upon impact.
Pilot Information
Certificate: Flight Instructor; Private
Age: 70, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Rear
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): Sport Pilot
Toxicology Performed: Yes
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 04/19/2016
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: 6000 hours (Total, all aircraft), 3012.9 hours (Total, this make and model)
Student Pilot Information
Certificate: Student
Age: 48, Male
Airplane Rating(s): None
Seat Occupied: Front
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: Yes
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: Yes
Medical Certification: None
Last FAA Medical Exam:
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time:
The instructor, age 70, held a private pilot certificate with an airplane single-engine land rating and a flight instructor certificate for light sport aircraft. The pilot was issued a third-class Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airman medical certificate on April 19, 2016, with a limitation that he must have available glasses for near vision. On the application for that medical certificate, the pilot reported 6,000 total hours of flight experience, of which 100 hours were in the previous six months. A review of the pilot's logbook revealed that he accumulated a total of 3,012.9 hours in the WSC trike category.
The student, age 48, held a student pilot certificate and was not required to possess an FAA airman medical certificate. The student's logbooks were not available for review, and his flight experience could not be determined.
Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information
Aircraft Make: NORTH WING UUM INC
Registration: N492XB
Model/Series: SPORT X2 912 NO SERIES
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 2014
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: LS9014
Landing Gear Type: Tricycle
Seats:
Date/Type of Last Inspection:
Certified Max Gross Wt.:
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines:
Airframe Total Time:
Engine Manufacturer:
ELT:
Engine Model/Series:
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power:
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None
The aircraft was manufactured in 2014 and purchased by the instructor in May 2017. The aircraft's maintenance records were not located and its maintenance history could not be determined.
The aircraft was equipped with a Rotax 912 series, 80-horsepower reciprocating engine. The engine was situated behind the rear seat in a pusher-type arrangement. The engine was electronically controlled and drove a 3-blade composite propeller.
The primary pilot station was the front seat. The rear seat occupant has no access to instruments. Both front and rear seat occupants had access to the control bar. Evidence suggest that the pilot occupied the rear seat and the student the front seat.
Meteorological Information and Flight Plan
Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: KEAT, 1229 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site: 34 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1455 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 203°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility: 10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: None
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 11 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: /
Wind Direction: 310°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: /
Altimeter Setting: 29.91 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: 24°C / 9°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: CHELAN, WA (S10)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: CHELAN, WA (S10)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time:
Type of Airspace: Class G
The 0655 automated observation at Pangborn Memorial Airport (EAT), Wenatchee, Washington, about 35 miles southwest of the accident site, included wind from 310° at 11 knots, 10 miles visibility, temperature 24°C, dew point 9°C, and an altimeter setting of 29.91 inches of mercury.
Wreckage and Impact Information
Crew Injuries: 2 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 2 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude: 47.920278, -119.869722
The aircraft impacted terrain near the top of a hill in mountainous, rocky terrain and was destroyed by impact forces. The wreckage debris path was oriented on a heading about 130° magnetic. The first identified point of contact (FIPC) was a rock about 25 ft below the summit of the hill. The FIPC was characterized by an area of disturbed dirt surrounded by debris, including the front steering fork and the brake reservoir. A portion of the canopy was located left of the FPIC. The main wreckage, including most of the airframe, the engine, the wing, main landing gear, and propeller, was located about 50 ft from the FIPC on a heading of 320°, indicating that, following the impact, it rolled down the hill. One propeller blade was fractured and located about 30 ft north of the main wreckage. The rear seat was located within the main wreckage; the front seat was located along the debris path. Multiple separations throughout the flight control system were observed. All fracture surfaces were consistent with overload.
The engine cylinders, crankcase and overhead components were intact and displayed no evidence of catastrophic failure. Disassembly and examination of the engine revealed no evidence of abnormal wear or failure of internal components. Negligible impact damage was noted to the crankcase, reduction gear case, cylinders, and accessory section. Rocker arm, valve train, and accessory gear continuity was established by rotating the engine crankshaft by hand. All four cylinders developed pressure when the crankshaft was rotated. Internal examination of the pistons and cylinders using a lighted borescope revealed no anomalies. The piston faces and cylinder bores were clear and undamaged. The spark plugs were removed and displayed normal wear signatures. Impact damage was noted to both carburetors and the ignition system. Examination of the engine revealed no evidence of a preimpact mechanical malfunction or failure.
Medical And Pathological Information
The King County Medical Examiner, Seattle, Washington, performed an autopsy of the flight instructor and the student pilot. The cause of death for both individuals was listed as multiple blunt force injuries.
The FAA Bioaeronatical Sciences Research Laboratory, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, performed toxicology on specimens from the instructor and the student pilot. Testing of specimens from the instructor detected ethanol in muscle and brain, propanol in muscle, and atorvastatin in liver. Ethanol is the intoxicant commonly found in beer, wine, and liquor. Ethanol may also be produced in body tissues by microbial activity after death. Atorvastatin (often called Lipitor) is a cholesterol-lowering agent. The drug is not considered impairing. The tests for cyanide and carbon monoxide were not performed. Testing of specimens of the student pilot detected ethanol in muscle but not in liver; no drugs were detected in muscle. The tests for cyanide and carbon monoxide were not performed.
Additional Information
Recovery from a Steep-banked Spiral Dive
According to the Weight-Shift Control Aircraft Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-5) Addendum, the purpose of practicing a steep spiral dive is to "build recognition of and a reflexive response to a steep-banked spiraling dive. Start all practice at an altitude that will permit a recovery at no lower than 1,000 feet above the ground (AGL). An altitude of at least 2,500 AGL is recommended…The pilot must be careful not to stall the aircraft or exceed airspeed limitations at all times."
NTSB Identification: WPR17FA139
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Saturday, July 01, 2017 in Chelan, WA
Aircraft: NORTH WING UUM INC SPORT X2 912, registration: N492XB
Injuries: 2 Fatal.
This is preliminary information, subject to change, and may contain errors. Any errors in this report will be corrected when the final report has been completed. NTSB investigators either traveled in support of this investigation or conducted a significant amount of investigative work without any travel, and used data obtained from various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.
On July 1, 2017 about 0715 Pacific daylight time, a North Wing Sport, N492XB, was destroyed when it impacted mountainous terrain near Chelan, Washington. The pilot who was the registered owner of the airplane, and a pilot-rated passenger sustained fatal injuries. The flight was operated under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident, and no flight plan had been filed. The local flight originated from Lake Chelan Airport, Chelan, Washington, about 0630.
Later that day, an Alert Notice (ALNOT) was issued for the airplane after family members of the pilot became concerned when he did not arrive at his intended destination. On July 2, 2017, the airplane wreckage found by the sheriff's department on a hillside about 5 miles from departure airport.
The airplane was recovered to a secure location for further examination.
1946 - 2017
Rebel Wallace, 70 of Henderson, Nevada, formerly of Lake Havasu City, Arizona was called home to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 1, 2017. We are grateful he flew into the arms of Jesus doing what he loved. He was born on October 12, 1946 in Missouri.
Rebel started out in life as a small town country boy who later developed into a knowledgeable, cultured, God loving, courageous, honorable man. As a small boy watching the crop dusters, he fell in love with adventure and began to nurture his curiosity of all things aviation.
A First Lieutenant and helicopter pilot in the United States Army. He served our Country with the Second of the First Cavalry in Vietnam.
Rebel married the love of his life, Louise Wallace, at the young age of 21, right before heading off to Vietnam. On October 28th 2017, Rebel and Louise would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
As a man of many talents, capable of building and fixing most anything, he was also a man with many passions throughout his life. From fishing, hunting, motorcycle racing, bbq'ing, and making videos, to reading and studying the gospels. There is no doubt his longest and greatest passion was flying and teaching others to fly as well.
Rebel is survived by his wife, Louise Wallace; daughter, Marlo Waters; brothers, Bobby and Kendall Wallace; sister, Faye DeSpain, and other extended family members and many friends.
Rebel was a loving, devoted husband, father, brother, son, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life for Rebel will be held in Lake Havasu City on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at 1:00pm in the sanctuary of Calvary Baptist Church, 1605 S. McCulloch Blvd.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made for Louise Wallace at: www.gofundme.com/veteran-pilot-dies-in-plane-crash. Thoughts and condolences can be sent to the family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com.
MARCH 24, 1969 – JULY 1, 2017
Eric Lee Sarchet was sadly taken from us at age 48 while enjoying one of his many outdoor activities. He passed on July 1, 2017. Eric was born in 1969 in Washington, DC. He grew up in Port Orchard and graduated South Kitsap High School in 1988. As a teenager, he found his first passion – scuba diving. He made many dives in Puget Sound, San Juans and several lakes.
After high school, Eric enlisted in the Navy and served five years, to include a deployment to the Persian Gulf for operation DESERT STORM. He was an Electrician’s Mate (EM2) and was stationed on a submarine tender, the USS MCKEE AS-41, in San Diego, CA. Eric learned the first of two tradecrafts as he always embraced how things work and making improvements. He was known as “Sparky.” While in the Navy, Eric began enjoying more of nature and other hobbies. He began climbing rocks and cliffs, paragliding, and skydiving. After an honorable discharge from the Navy, he undertook one of several challenges during his lifetime – he bicycled across the US and half-way back. He biked 9,729 miles across 33 states. In following years, he trekked southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand) and biked Australia. In Australia, he obtained his PADI master scuba diver rating while diving the Great Barrier Reef. He also did a lot of cliff climbing in Yosemite National Park.
After the Navy and amongst bicycling trips, Eric worked as a boat’s electrician with the Alaskan fishing fleet on boats based out of Seattle. He was on the Yardarm Knot and the Northern Victor. Although tough work, it was seasonal and paid for his passions. He eventually settled in Everett and changed careers. He became an elevator technician for ThyssenKrup – his second tradecraft. His strong work ethic and ability to fix problems were admired. With more time in Washington, Eric began mountain biking, mountaineering, kayaking, and riding all-terrain vehicles and jet skis. He also bought a boat and expanded his scuba diving and crabbing activities. He climbed Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, Mt. Baker, Mt. St. Helens, and Mt. Hood. He also kayaked around many islands within the sound and all of the islands of the San Juans. Underneath the waters, he collected maritime artifacts to decorate his house. In the last five years, Eric sought to fly with the birds. He flew ultralights and just completed his FAA certification as a sport pilot. He was considering becoming an instructor.
Eric is survived by his parents, Milo and Marie; siblings, Kurt (Kevin), Renee (Doug), and Dion (Alicia); and nephews and niece, Ryan, Kyle, Alexander, and Lydia. His cat, Pretty Girl known as PG, is living with a long-time family friend. He had many friendships with co-workers, outdoorsmen, and neighbors. He always encouraged people to enjoy nature and be active, and his family’s wish is for each of you to do the same.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Acacia Memorial Park and Funeral Home at 12:00pm on September 9, 2017. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made towards a children’s charity of your choice.
On Saturday, July 1, 2017 at 7:30 p.m., the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office received a report of an overdue aircraft which had left the Chelan Airport earlier that morning at 6:30 a.m. It was thought that the aircraft, with two occupants on board, was heading north toward Douglas County or Okanogan County. The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deployed its helicopter to search for the aircraft with no success.
CCSO renewed their search on Sunday, July 2 using coordinates from one of the occupants last cell phone signals. At approximately 10:30 a.m., CCSO located the wreckage on Windsor Hill about one mile downstream from Wells Dam in Douglas County.
Douglas County Sheriff Harvey Gjesdal reported that deputies are attempting to reach the wreckage, but the terrain is extremely treacherous. The aircraft is a North Wing Sport.
The Douglas and Chelan County Sheriff’s Offices are working closely together to get to the scene and determine the fate of the occupants. The names of the occupants are not being disclosed at this time.
EAST WENATCHEE, Wash. -- Two people were killed when their small plane crashed in rugged terrain in Eastern Washington Saturday.
The Chelan County Sheriff's Office received a report of an overdue plane around 7:30 p.m.. Deputies were told the plane had taken off from the Chelan airport around 6:30 a.m. with two people on board and were heading toward Douglas or Okanogan County, according to Douglas County Sheriff Harvey Gjesdal.
Search helicopters were deployed but couldn't find the plane. An aerial search was renewed on Sunday and they found the plane's wreckage that morning on Windsor Hill about a mile downstream from Wells Dam in Douglas County. The plane was described as a North Wing Sport.
Once deputies were able to reach the wreckage on the ground Sunday afternoon, they were able to confirm that both people on board had died. They were identified as 48-year-old Eric Sarchet of Everett and 70-year-old Bonnie Wallace of Central Point, Oregon.
There is no word yet what caused the crash. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating.
http://komonews.com
Douglas County Sheriff Harvey Gjesdal has released the names of the two people killed in the crash of an ultralight Saturday. They were identified as 48 year old Eric Sarchet of Everett, WA and 70 year old Rebel Wallace of Henderson, Nevada. Gjesdal says it is his understanding that one of the victims was a flight instructor and the other was a student but Gjesdal was not clear on which victim was the student. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the crash.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office reports 2 men died Saturday in the crash of a North Wing Sport crash on Windsor Hill near Wells Dam. Deputies reached the crash site by Sunday evening to recover the bodies of the two unidentified victims. The pilot and a passenger left Chelan airport around 6:30 Saturday morning and were reported overdue at 7:30 p.m. The wreckage was discovered Sunday around 10:30 a.m. but rugged terrain made it extremely treacherous reaching the crash site, according to Douglas County Sheriff Harvey Gjesdal.
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