Accident Overview
An aircraft operating on a pipeline patrol mission departed from Gillette, Wyoming. The flight was the pilot's first patrol over the specific pipeline route being flown. During the flight, the aircraft collided with three powerlines and subsequently crashed.
Flight Details
According to the passenger, the wires were observed just prior to impact, and the pilot did not take any evasive maneuvers. A witness reported that the aircraft had executed a 180-degree turn before the collision with the wires.
Witness Accounts
The passenger, who was on board, stated seeing the powerlines moments before the crash and noted that the pilot made no attempt to avoid them. An external witness described the aircraft turning around completely prior to striking the wires.
No additional details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or occupants have been provided. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident is ongoing.