ELKO – A medical transport plane crashed into the Barrick Gold Corp. parking lot on Mountain City Highway Friday night, killing the patient and three crew members.
The crash caused multiple explosions and sent up flames near a busy casino, motel, grocery store and senior housing complex.
Elko cardiologist Dr. Rodney Badger said the American Medflight plane had just taken off from Elko Regional Airport with a heart patient who was being transported to the University of Utah.
Allen Kenitzer of the FAA Office of Communications stated the Piper PA 31 aircraft crashed under unknown circumstances with four people on board. He said there were no injuries on the ground.
“We are devastated by this event and wish we had answers to the many questions being asked at this time,” said a statement from American Medflight.
The airport is located across the highway from the Barrick lot, one of several used by miners who are bused to and from the region’s gold mines.
Elko police Lt. Rich Genseal said authorities assume the crash occurred as the plane was taking off.
“There was not a lot left of the aircraft,” Elko Fire Chief Matt Griego said after the flames were extinguished.
“As an air medical family, we are mourning the loss of our crewmembers and patient,” said the statement from John Burruel, president and CEO of Nevada-based American Medflight Inc. "Their families have been notified and they are in our thoughts and prayers. Our priority at this time is to look after the well being of the affected family members and their co-workers and to be responsive to their needs.”