DILLINGHAM, Alaska — A tragic plane crash at the Dillingham Airport on Friday morning has claimed the life of 33-year-old John Landsiedel, a well-known wildlife biologist with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
Alaska State Troopers responded to the scene just before 9:15 a.m., where they found a Piper J3C-65 Cub aircraft that had crashed on the runway. Landsiedel, the sole occupant of the aircraft, was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to Clint Johnson, Alaska Region Chief for the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), preliminary information indicates the aircraft went down shortly after takeoff. The plane’s registration was reportedly under the name of an individual not aboard at the time of the crash.
Landsiedel was a respected member of the Dillingham community and dedicated his career to conservation and wildlife management in Southwest Alaska. His work with the Department of Fish and Game was marked by a deep commitment to preserving the state’s natural resources and ecosystems.
The NTSB has launched an investigation into the crash to determine the cause, and further details will be released as they become available.
John Landsiedel’s sudden death is a heartbreaking loss to the local community and to Alaska’s scientific and conservation circles. He is remembered not only for his professional contributions but also for his passion for the wilderness he served.
Leave a Reply