SHERIDAN COUNTY, Wyo. — Authorities confirmed that a 13-year-old girl died Monday following the crash of a single-engine plane in Bighorn National Forest. The incident also left three other passengers seriously injured, prompting a swift emergency response and an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The plane, carrying four passengers, went down in a remote area of the national forest during the early afternoon. Witnesses reported hearing the plane struggling before it went out of sight, after which emergency services were immediately contacted.
Rescue teams from Sheridan County and surrounding areas arrived quickly at the crash site despite the challenging terrain. First responders worked to provide medical attention to the passengers who survived the initial impact, stabilizing them before transporting them to nearby medical facilities.
Despite rapid efforts, the 13-year-old girl succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. Authorities have not released her identity pending notification of family members, but have confirmed that her surviving companions are receiving critical care at a regional hospital.
Investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration and local law enforcement are examining the scene to determine the cause of the crash. Initial reports suggest the investigation will focus on mechanical issues, weather conditions, and pilot factors, though no conclusions have been reached.
Family members of the passengers have been notified and are receiving support from local authorities and counseling services. The community has expressed shock and grief over the tragedy, as news of the crash spreads throughout the region.
The Bighorn National Forest area presents challenging conditions for search and rescue operations. Emergency crews had to navigate rugged terrain and dense forest to reach the crash site, demonstrating the complexity and urgency of aviation rescue in remote areas.
Authorities are appealing to anyone with information about the flight, including eyewitnesses or anyone with relevant communications, to assist with the investigation. They emphasize that all details are important to help understand the sequence of events leading up to the crash.
Local officials have called for caution and reflection in the wake of the tragedy. Memorials and community gatherings are expected to honor the young girl’s life and provide support to her family and the other injured passengers.
The plane crash in Sheridan County serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers of aviation, particularly in remote and challenging terrain. Authorities continue to investigate, while communities and families work together to provide care, support, and remembrance for those affected.
