Survivors of a harrowing plane incident in Prince George, B.C., where one person died and several others were injured, are recounting their experiences. Jaime Pawliuk, on his way to work, described the terrifying moment when the plane was approaching him. Despite trying to avoid the collision, the wing of the aircraft sheared off the top of his vehicle, causing superficial cuts and glass all over him. Pawliuk shared images of his wrecked car, showing the shattered sunroof and a metal rod piercing the passenger seat.
The emergency landing, involving a Beech King Air 200 aircraft, occurred on Foothills Boulevard, a busy road connecting residential areas. Pawliuk and others had to abandon their vehicles at the site during the investigation. The wreckage of several damaged vehicles was later removed by flatbed trucks.
Witness Mohit Arora detailed how a pickup truck was hit by the plane’s wing, with the driver surviving the impact. Photos depicted debris through the truck’s windshield and a propeller lying on the road. A family member confirmed that the occupants of a yellow car forced off the road sustained no injuries but had their roof damaged by propeller blades.
The Transportation Safety Board (TSB) confirmed that four vehicles were struck by the aircraft and deployed investigators to gather evidence. The plane, owned by Sekani Air Ltd., left a remote airstrip en route to Prince George International Airport but had to make the emergency landing due to engine failure.
Former TSB investigator Bill Yearwood explained the challenges pilots face in such emergencies, emphasizing the split-second decisions they must make. The road where the incident occurred has since reopened, although signs of the event remain visible. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with the plane being moved to a temporary storage location for assessment.
Affected individuals are still grappling with the shock of the crash, seeking answers and support. Pawliuk expressed gratitude for surviving the ordeal while mourning the loss of the victim. The community continues to process the aftermath of the tragic incident.