Glider crash in Prescott results in pilot’s death
Apr 12, 2015, 9:30 AM | Updated: 9:30 am
PRESCOTT VALLEY, Ariz. — A glider crash Saturday in Prescott Valley has claimed the life of the pilot, according to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s office.
Per a YCSO press release, at approximately 3:30 p.m. Saturday, YSCO deputies were alerted to a downed aircraft on Morning Star Ranch Road, east of Coyote Springs Road in Prescott Valley. When deputies reported to the scene, EMS personnel from the Central Yavapai Fire District had already arrived and pronounced the male pilot deceased.
Gliders are often launched while connected to a vehicle with a tow line. Once appropriate altitude is reached, the tow line is detached, enabling the aircraft to glide without assistance from the ground.
According to eyewitnesses, the glider in question appeared to lose control and descend rapidly shortly after take off, crashing in to an empty field and killing the pilot.
The identification of the pilot is unknown at this time. The NTSB is currently investigating the specific cause of the crash.
Stay with KTAR.com for further updates on the incident.
