The husband of U.S. Representative Mary Sattler Peltola lost his life in a plane crash in Alaska. Both her office and U.S. authorities confirmed this heart-wrenching news on Wednesday.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the crash involved a single-engine Piper PA-18 and occurred shortly after takeoff in the vicinity of St. Mary’s, Alaska, at approximately 8:45 p.m. local time on Tuesday, September 12. Tragically, the only occupant of the plane was Eugene Peltola Jr., who served as the pilot.
On Wednesday, Representative Peltola’s office officially announced the passing of Eugene Peltola Jr. It’s worth noting that Alaska, due to its rugged and mountainous terrain, has experienced a disproportionate number of small aircraft accidents, as many individuals opt for flying to access remote destinations. This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the risks associated with aviation in such challenging landscapes.
Notably, this incident recalls the 2010 plane crash in Alaska, which claimed the lives of former U.S. Senator Ted Stevens and three others.