Alaska Rep. Mary Peltola Husband Killed in Plane Crash

Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola Jr., the husband of Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola, has tragically died in a plane crash in Alaska, as confirmed by a statement from the congresswoman's office.

The statement described Eugene as a person who excelled in many aspects of life, possessed a wonderful sense of humor, and was known for his culinary skills, per CNN.

Family was of utmost importance to him, and he was deeply devoted to his parents, children, siblings, extended family, and friends, with a special affection for Mary.

The statement also requested privacy for the grieving Peltola family and mentioned that the congresswoman would return to Alaska during this difficult time.

Alaska Plane Crash

The tragic plane crash involving Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola Jr. occurred in a remote area about 64 miles northeast of the village of St. Mary's in Alaska.

The plane involved in the crash was identified as a single-engine Piper PA-18 Super Cub, and it went down in mountainous terrain, according to the Anchorage Daily News.

Peltola had been flying a hunter and equipment to a remote location before the crash, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

The crash occurred shortly after Peltola's departure following the drop-off of the hunter.

He was the only person on board the plane, and despite receiving medical care from two hunters at the scene, Peltola passed away before a rescue team could arrive.

An emergency locator transmitter registered to Peltola was activated, leading to a response from the Alaska Air National Guard rescue team.

The NTSB is investigating the crash and will be interviewing witnesses to gather more information.

Peltola's body has been transported to the State Medical Examiner's Office in Anchorage for an autopsy. The two uninjured hunters at the crash site were flown to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.

Alaska Rep. Mary Peltola and Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola Jr.

Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola Jr. was the former Bureau of Indian Affairs for Alaska regional director, and a past member of the US Fish and Wildlife Service in the state, Yahoo! News reported.

Last year, Peltola achieved a significant milestone by winning a special election for Alaska's at-large congressional seat, making her the first Alaska Native to secure a seat in Congress and the first Democrat to represent the district in nearly half a century.

She later went on to secure victory in the November general election.

Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican, expressed her heartfelt condolences on Wednesday upon hearing the news of Eugene "Buzzy" Peltola Jr.'s passing.

She conveyed her shock and deep sadness, emphasizing that Buzzy was a person whose warmth, generosity, and charm left an indelible impression on those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Murkowski noted that many Alaskans considered him a friend, and his family deeply affectionately held him.

President Joe Biden also issued a statement on Wednesday, mentioning that he had spoken with Representative Peltola and offered his condolences.

In his words, "Buzzy was a devoted public servant, and the tributes pouring in from all corners of the state underscore his status as a friend to all. However, it is crucial to remember that he was a beloved husband and father, and his family is now experiencing profound grief."

Just days before his passing, Alaska Rep. Mary Peltola and her daughter had joined President Biden in Anchorage to commemorate the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

President Biden reflected on the recent events, "On Monday, Mary flew back with me to Washington on Air Force One, with the whole world ahead of her. Today, I spoke with her with that world shattered in shock and sadness."

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

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