An attempt to redirect this thread
In the interest of safety:
That?s all I have to report, and the critical information is second-or-third-hand except the after-accident scene which I personally observed from a distance. In other words, please wait for the NTSB report before drawing any conclusions from this unfortunate accident.* I believe all of us send our sincere, heartfelt condolences and prayers to the families and friends of those involved.
*Bold emphasis added by a Moderator.
Both of the pilots involved in this incident are friends of mine. This post is my attempt to redirect this thread to simply offer condolences to Jeff's family & friends and to offer encouragement to Dave, his wife Leah and family.
Jeff Johnson
I didn't know Jeff on very a personal level, just the occasional meeting at the airport. He always greeted me with a smile and I can't recall him ever having an unkind thing to say. Self deprecating humor was his usual go to, most often followed with a snickering laugh. Wednesday, the day following the incident, I was compelled to skip work and go to the airport in search of answers to the many questions I had. Three other pilots and I walked out to the crash site. We were still in the grass field when we were approached by two of Jeff's three daughters and his son. With a Styrofoam cup in hand, they said they were bringing their Dad a beer. One of his daughters said "It's the wrong brand but it'll have to do".
I hope that anyone on the forum who knew Jeff better than I will post a few thoughts.
Dave Stevenson
I've known Dave for about eight years and I've had the hangar directly across from him for the last six. Dave is the guy every airport wished they had. He's always willing to help at a moment's notice no matter what the request. Never boastful, he is a never ending source of aviation knowledge. You would never know it until you're witnessing it being put to use. I have seen this man fly countless aircraft, from a Piper Cub to a DC3, quite often on their maiden flight or after a major overhaul. Many pilots, myself included, consider Dave the best pilot they know.
At this time, Dave is still in a medically induced coma. He sustained major head injuries that required emergency surgery to relieve pressure on his brain. He also has fractures around his left eye, spine and right ankle. The doctors say he is steadily improving but he is still in ICU. I visited him today and he looks much better than when I first saw him Tuesday evening.
Your well wishes and encouragement are welcome. I hope that someday Dave can read your comments himself.
I'll keep you posted as I know more.
