FORT COLLINS, Colo. — A Civil Air Patrol plane crashed in Colorado on Saturday during a training mission, resulting in two fatalities and one person critically injured. The crash occurred near Storm Mountain, about 80 miles northwest of Denver, around 11:15 a.m. local time.
The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, along with local emergency responders, arrived at the scene and discovered three individuals aboard the plane.
Tragically, two of them were confirmed dead, while the third, identified as co-pilot Randall Settergren, was severely injured and airlifted to a nearby hospital by a Colorado Army National Guard helicopter.
Ali Adams, a spokesperson for the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, noted that the crash site was in a remote area, making recovery efforts challenging. “Due to the difficult terrain, it may take several days for a full recovery,” Adams said.
The aircraft involved was a Cessna 182, according to a Civil Air Patrol press release. The plane was on a training mission when the crash occurred.
Governor Jared Polis identified the victims as pilot Susan Wolber and aerial photographer Jay Rhoten. The injured co-pilot, Randall Settergren, was the only survivor of the incident.
The Civil Air Patrol, a nonprofit organization and official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, expressed its support for the ongoing investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office.
Major General Regena Aye, National Commander of Civil Air Patrol, emphasized the organization's commitment to the safety and protection of its volunteers. “People are our greatest asset, and we will do everything possible to protect them,” she stated.
The crash occurred during an aerial photography exercise, which is part of Civil Air Patrol’s search-and-rescue missions and disaster management efforts. According to Chief Growth Officer Kristina Jones, aerial photography is an essential tool used in locating missing persons and responding to emergencies.
Governor Polis expressed his condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the victims, recognizing their dedication to serving Colorado. “These individuals, along with survivor Randall Settergren, were volunteering to make Colorado a safer place for everyone,” Polis said. “We deeply appreciate their service and extend our gratitude to the first responders involved in the rescue and recovery process.”
Civil Air Patrol missions in Colorado include searching for missing hikers, providing medical supplies, and supporting disaster relief efforts. The organization operates 39 squadrons across the state, including the Thompson Valley Composite Squadron based in Fort Collins, where the fallen members were based.
Major General Laura Clellan of the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs also expressed her sorrow. “It’s heartbreaking to learn of the loss of Susan Wolber and Jay Rhoten, and we are keeping Randall Settergren in our thoughts,” she said.
The crash serves as a reminder of the vital, often dangerous work carried out by Civil Air Patrol volunteers in service to their communities.