Small Plane Crash East of Grand Junction Kills One Person

Authorities are investigating the cause of a plane crash that killed one person Monday in western Colorado.

Traffic Control Loses Communication and Radar Contact With Plane

Details of the tragedy began to unfold Monday morning when Denver Aircraft Traffic Control reported it had lost communication and radar contact with a Beech Baron twin-engine aircraft in the area of Castle Peak southeast of De Beque. Mesa County Sheriff's Office deputies and the Plateau Valley Fire Department responded to the area to locate the aircraft.

Wreckage Spotted in Remote Area of Western Colorado

Early Monday afternoon, a searching helicopter spotted wreckage on the ground near Jerry Reservoir near the Grand Mesa. Rescue efforts were initiated with crews being shuttled to the remote crash by helicopter. Just after 1:00 Monday, the Mesa County Sheriff's Office confirmed the sole occupant of the plane was deceased.

FAA Investigating Cause of Crash

According to the Mesa County Sheriff's Office, the flight had originated from Blake Field in Delta County and was en route to Rock Springs, Wyoming. The FAA is investigating the cause of the crash and the Mesa County Coroner was determining the cause and manner of death.

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In addition to the Mesa County Sheriff's Office and Plateau Valley Fire Department, Civil Air Patrol and Careflight were mobilized to aid in the search.

Our deepest thoughts, prayers, and condolences go out to the family of the pilot.