UPPER RED LAKE, Minn. (Valley News Live) – Just two days after dozens of people had to be rescued on Upper Red Lake, officials are now working to get a plane removed from the icy waters.
The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office says two people were coming to Upper Red Lake for a day of ice fishing. After conducting a flyover, the pilot identified what was believed to be a safe landing area; however, the plane had difficulty slowing down because of lack of snow. The nose of the plane ended up breaking through into open water.
The pilot is identified as Lawrence Daigle, 72, of Cohasset, MN. The passenger is Karl Uhlenhopp, 63, of Aplington, IA. Both men were wet from the waist down, but they were able to get out of the plane safely and were brought to an area resort where they were provided dry clothing.
Officials say only one to two inches of ice was reported where the plane went through, approximately one-half mile out from Pioneer Road on the southeastern shore of Upper Red Lake.
All seven people on board the aircraft were taken to the hospital for evaluation and treatment, according to airport police.
Johnson told Alaska’s News source two people had serious injuries from the crash.The NTSB is investigating the crash.
Multiple airport police and fire units, including a rescue boat, responded to the scene. Anchorage Fire Department units also responded to provide mutual aid, giving primary EMS care and patient transport.
Airport Police and Fire Chief Aaron Danielson credited good Samaritans with helping the victims immediately after the crash.
“The Airport Police and Fire would like to thank several good Samaritans that witnessed the crash and rendered immediate aid to the victims,” Danielson said in the release. “We are certain their quick actions to help the victims from the water assisted with the quick triage and medical care before they were transported for further medical aid
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