1 dead after plane crash near Willow

WASILLA — One person is dead after a plane crash near Willow, Alaska State Troopers said.

Colt Richter, 24, was identified Thursday morning as the pilot of a plane that crashed near Willow Wednesday night. Richter died at the scene, according to troopers. Richter, of Anchorage, was flying a plane that also included two passengers and gear, according to a state troopers dispatch. The plane, headed for FBI Lake from Willow Lake, crashed immediately after takeoff, troopers say.

According to an online dispatch posted Wednesday night, AST received a report about 7 p.m. Wednesday that a plane had crashed in the area of Long Lake Road and Barrington Loop. The crash sparked a wildfire, according to troopers, at the point, west of Mile 69 of the Parks Highway.

AST, Alaska Wildlife Troopers, and Mat-Su Borough fire and emergency crews all reported to the scene. Troopers said three people were believed to be on board. Two were transported for medical attention, according to the dispatch.

The passengers have not been identified. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the incident.

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