A 38-year-old pilot was killed when his plane crashed about 100 kilometres east of Lac La Biche. The BC man was fighting fires in the area when the Conair plane went down at about 4:30 p.m. Friday.
Conair and the Transportation Safety Board sent investigators to the scene. Incoming premier Rachel Notley issued a statement on the death.
“First responders like this pilot, and our many other dedicated wildland fire fighters, put their lives on the line every day to ensure that our homes and families are safe. We owe them our most sincere gratitude. Even as they mourn the loss of one of their own, I know they will continue fighting the many fires burning within our borders,” she states.
Notley is asking Albertans to respect fire restrictions. The fire is affecting the Cold Lake Weapons Range and is getting closer to an Imperial Oil facility.
People living in Lac La Biche County are being advised to take precautions.
(660News, Crystal Laderas)
