The tragic loss of ten lives in a commuter plane crash near Nome, Alaska, has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit communities across the state. As authorities work to determine the cause of the deadly incident, family members and colleagues are sharing heartfelt tributes to the victims, painting a vivid picture of their lives, contributions, and legacies. The small, single-engine turboprop plane, operated by Bering Air, was traveling from Unalakleet to Nome when it disappeared on Thursday afternoon. Rescue crews quickly responded to the incident, locating an “item of interest” in the icy Bering Sea. By the weekend, the remains of all ten victims had been recovered and officially brought home, bringing a measure of closure to grieving families and loved ones.
Among those who lost their lives were two individuals who had traveled to Unalakleet to work on a heat recovery system for the community’s water plant. Rhone Baumgartner, 46, and Kameron Hartvigson, 41, were part of a team with the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC). Their expertise and dedication were instrumental in addressing heating and mechanical issues in the harsh Alaskan winter. David Beveridge, a vice president at ANTHC, described them as highly skilled professionals who had a deep commitment to serving others. Natasha Singh, ANTHC’s interim president and CEO, echoed these sentiments, calling them the best at what they did and highlighting their selflessness in helping remote communities. Their contributions, both in their work and their character, have left a lasting impact on the people and places they served.
The pilot of the ill-fated flight, 34-year-old Chad Antill of Nome, also lost his life in the crash. Antill was not only a skilled aviator but also a beloved member of his community. The other victims included individuals from diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique stories and contributions. Liane Ryan, 52, of Wasilla, was a former science teacher and volleyball coach who dedicated her post-retirement life to mentoring new teachers. Donnell Erickson, 58, of Nome, was a mechanic with the Bering Strait School District, remembered for his kindness and reliability. Andrew Gonzalez, 30, of Wasilla, and Jadee Moncur, 52, of Eagle River, were also among the victims, leaving behind families and friends who cherished their presence in their lives.
Ian Hofmann, 45, of Anchorage, and Talaluk “TK” Katchatag, 34, of Unalakleet, were two more individuals whose lives were cut short in the tragedy. TK, as he was affectionately known, was described by his sister AyyuSue as a soft-spoken, wise, and strong man who loved his family and community deeply. His passing has left a gaping hole in the lives of those who knew him. Carol Mooers, 48, of Unalakleet, was a decorated Army veteran, educator, and community leader. She was on her way to pick up students for college tours in Juneau and Anchorage, a mission that reflected her dedication to empowering the next generation. Her son, Aaron, remembered her as someone who deserved the best and had always wished to be buried alongside her fellow service members in San Antonio.
As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, the people of Alaska are coming together to support the families of the victims. The Nome Volunteer Fire Department, which played a critical role in the recovery efforts, expressed solidarity with the grieving community. The crash is one of the deadliest in Alaska in the past 25 years, underscoring the risks and challenges faced by those who rely on small commuter aircraft to travel across the vast and remote state. Authorities are working diligently to determine what led to the tragedy, but for now, the focus remains on honoring the lives lost and providing comfort to those left behind.
The stories of the ten individuals who perished in the crash are a testament to the resilience, compassion, and community spirit that define life in Alaska. From the skilled professionals who worked tirelessly to improve their communities to the educators, leaders, and family members who touched countless lives, each victim leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and strength. As the state mourns this devastating loss, it is these memories and the impact of their lives that will continue to inspire and uplift others in the days to come.
