Three People Die in Metro Ambulance Plane Crash Near Mandan
A Metro Area Ambulance plane crashed northwest of Mandan late Sunday night. The three people on board the plane did not survive the crash.
The plane took off from Bismarck and was headed to Williston as it took off around 10:30 p.m. Sunday night, according to the Morton County sheriff's department. Contact with the plane was lost at about 11 p.m. The Morton County sheriff's department, Civil Air Patrol, and Air Force Rescue found the crash site between 1 and 2 a.m. The crash site is approximately 15 to 20 miles northwest of Mandan. The investigation is ongoing.
CHI St. Alexius Health has said the Bismarck Air Medical plane was flying to Williston to assist in a patient transport. An air med pilot, paramedic, and a CHI nurse were on board when the plane went down. There are no survivors.
Kurt Schley, CHI St. Alexius Health Bismarck President, and Dan Schaefer, Bismarck Air Medical and Metro Area Ambulance Operations Chief said in a joint statement:
It is a sad day here for both of our organizations. We are grieving for the family members of those who were on board...The names of the individuals are not being released until families are notified. We are focused on supporting the families and associates from both organizations. We ask for your prayers and support at this very difficult time for all.
Governor Doug Burgum has also issued a statement regarding the plane crash:
We are deeply saddened by the news of last night’s airplane crash that claimed the lives of the pilot, a paramedic and a registered nurse – individuals who dedicated their lives to saving the lives of others. We are forever grateful for their service...Kathryn and I extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers to their families, friends and colleagues in the medical and first responder communities.
There are currently no details as to how the plane went down and the incident is also being investigated by the National Transport Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration.
This is a developing story and we will keep you updated as more information is released.