A single-engine plane crashed during takeoff in Bethel on Sunday, June 2, according to acting Bethel Police Chief Christopher Wigner. The pilot was the only person on board the plane and was not injured in the crash, Wigner said Sunday evening.
Bethel Police, Bethel Fire Department, and Alaska State Troopers responded to a report of a plane crash at about 4:20 p.m. on June 2. The single-engine plane, operated by Grant Aviation, had crashed during takeoff for unknown reasons.
Acting Chief Wigner said investigation of the crash has been turned over to the Alaska State Troopers.
The pilot and sole occupant of the plane was evaluated by Emergency Medical Services and released with "no apparent injuries," according to an Alaska State Trooper dispatch report.
After initial investigation, State Troopers said it appeared the plane had made a hard landing shortly after takeoff, but did not specify a reason for the hard landing.
A spokesperson for Grant Aviation confirmed Sunday evening that one of their planes was involved in the crash and that the pilot was not injured. The spokesperson said that Grant is cooperating with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which are also investigating the incident.
This is a developing news story. KYUK will update with additional information as it becomes available.
