Steven Wilson Killed in Coalinga Plane Accident near W. Chandler and S. Sonoma Avenues
Coalinga, California (February 16, 2022) – Steven Wilson, 53, has been identified as the pilot who was killed in a plane crash that took place in Coalinga on Tuesday night, according to the Fresno County Sheriff's Office.
At around 9:30 p.m. February 15, authorities were notified that ground crew had lost contact with the pilot of a 1967 Bell UH-1 that was crop-dusting in the area.
Authorities began a search in the area at about 11:00 p.m. and located the plane's wreckage near W. Chandler and S. Sonoma Avenues, just north of Harris Ranch at around 3:00 a.m. Wednesday.
Authorities believe the plane clipped high power lines and crashed.
Steven Wilson Dies in Coalinga Plane Crash near W. Chandler and S. Sonoma Avenues
Wilson was the only occupant at the time and was pronounced dead at the scene after being extricated by Cal Fire crews.
The plane is owned by American Ag Aviation, Inc., a company in Five Points, the sheriff's office said.
The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the incident.