Tragedy Strikes as Plane Crash Claims Lives of Six in Fort Smith

A tragic plane crash near the community of Fort Smith in the Northwest Territories has claimed the lives of six people, according to the NWT Coroner Service. The crash occurred on Tuesday, resulting in the death of four passengers and two crew members from Northwestern Air Lease. Next of kin notifications have been completed by police.

Amidst this devastating news, Rio Tinto CEO Jakob Stausholm expressed his condolences in a statement, saying, ‘We are feeling numb with the devastating news that we have lost dear friends and colleagues. I extend our deepest sympathy to the families, friends, and loved ones of those who have been affected by this tragedy.’ Stausholm further added that he would be heading to the Northwest Territories to support the team and offer full assistance.

The survivor of the crash was initially taken to a health center in Fort Smith and later transferred by air to a hospital in Yellowknife for further treatment.

The Diavik diamond mine, located approximately 300 kilometers northeast of Yellowknife, is operated by Rio Tinto. Fort Smith, where the incident took place, is situated about 2100 kilometers northeast of Vancouver, near the border between Alberta and the Northwest Territories.

The aircraft involved in the crash was identified as a British Aerospace Jetstream, registered to Northwestern Air Lease.