A dog on the runway may have caused the deadly Cessna crash that killed two people in Nanwalek Alaska, Monday. The plane struck the runway while attempting to land then slid off into the water, according to a preliminary Federal Aviation Administration report.
The crash killed 48 year old pilot Daniel Bunker and 37 year old passenger Jenny Irene Miller, state troopers confirmed. Alaska State Troopers said a third man on board sustained serious injuries and was flown to an Anchorage hospital for treatment.
National Transportation Safety Board investigators said early findings suggest Bunker may have tried avoiding a loose dog on the airstrip. Clint Jhonson, NTSB´s Alaska chief, stated the pilot initiated a go-around maneuver moments before losing control.
The pilot attempted a sharp climb and turned away from the airstrip before crashing, Jhonson said. Investigation believes the plane experienced an aerodynamic stall which happens when the wings stop generating lift.
Officials have not yet concluded the cause of the crash but say the Alaska plane crash investigation remains ongoing. Jhonson stressed that no final conclusions will be made until the wreckage is fully examined.
Crews will move the remains of the Cessna from the crash site to Homer and later to Anchorage for mechanical analysis. Troopers confirmed that Miller and Bunkers bodies were sent to the State Medical Examiner for autopsies.
Local residents in Nanwalek, a remote Kenai Peninsula village, expressed grief as the investigation continued. The dog´s involvement is still unconfirmed but officials are examining every detail.
