A state senator from North Dakota, Doug Larsen, and his family have been killed in a small plane crash in Utah. The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff near Moab, Utah, where it had stopped to refuel. The pilot of the plane also died in the crash. The Larsen family was visiting relatives in Scottsdale, Arizona when the tragic incident occurred.
The news of the senator’s death was first confirmed by North Dakota’s Senate Majority Leader David Hogue, who sent an email to his colleagues expressing condolences and urging them to hold their families close during such a difficult time. The Grand County Sheriff’s Office posted a statement on Facebook, explaining that they received a report of a “plane going into the ground” shortly after takeoff from Canyonlands Airfield. Law enforcement and emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) who tweeted about the incident on their official Twitter account. The NTSB disclosed that they are investigating the crash of a Piper PA-28-140 airplane that occurred on October 1 near Moab, Utah. The airport where the crash occurred, Canyonlands Airport, will continue to operate while the investigation is ongoing.
Doug Larsen, who was elected to the North Dakota Senate in 2020, was known as a conservative Republican outsider working for the constituents of District 34. He was passionate about his role as chairman of a Senate panel focused on industry and business legislation. Additionally, Larsen had served in the North Dakota National Guard, showing his dedication to both his state and country.
The tragic incident has left a devastating impact on the Larsen family, their friends, and the North Dakota community. It serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing our loved ones every day. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the grandparents, the surviving stepchild, and the extended family of Doug and Amy Larsen during this incredibly challenging time.
This heartbreaking news also raises awareness about the risks associated with air travel and the importance of aviation safety. While air travel is generally a safe mode of transportation, accidents such as this remind us of the potential dangers involved. It is crucial for investigators to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the crash to determine its cause and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The tragic loss of Doug Larsen and his family leaves a void in the North Dakota Senate and the community as a whole. Their contributions and presence will be deeply missed. As individuals and as a society, we should take this opportunity to reflect on the value of life and the significance of family. Let us support one another in times of grief and honor the memory of those we have lost.
