Two dead after Piper Cub crash near Tonasket, Washington
Written by AI from 8 reports listed below. Not checked by a person before publication. How we use AI
A 1976 Piper Cub that departed Penticton, British Columbia, for Grangeville, Idaho, was found wrecked in Aeneas Valley near Tonasket, Washington, with both occupants dead. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the accident.
Wreckage location
Washington State Department of Transportation search and rescue teams located the aircraft wreckage on Sunday at about 4:30 p.m. in Aeneas Valley near Tonasket, Washington.
The discovery was also reported by other outlets, confirming the wreckage was found on Sunday in the same area.
Flight details
The plane, a 1976 Piper Cub, left Penticton, British Columbia, on Saturday bound for Grangeville, Idaho, and lost communication with Seattle Center air traffic control during the flight.
Victims
The pilot, 61‑year‑old Nicholas Grachanin, and passenger Jim Merik were found dead inside the aircraft.
Other reports stated that the identities of the deceased had not yet been released pending family notification.
Investigation and review
The National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the cause of the crash.
The Federal Aviation Administration is expected to conduct a thorough review of the incident.
Search assistance
Search and rescue efforts were assisted by local authorities, specialized rescue teams, and additional ground teams from the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation.
What's still unclear
Some sources named the victims as Nicholas Grachanin and Jim Merik, while other sources said the identities had not yet been released.