Pilot dead after crash at Cold Lake Air Show
An experienced Calgary pilot was killed after his plane crashed Sunday at the Cold Lake Air Show.
Bruce Evans appeared to be attempting to perform a loop in his T-28 Trojan when he crashed. He was seen flying low to the ground, almost vertical, attempting to pull up. His plane disappeared behind some buildings. A loud bang was heard and a plume of dirt and debris rose over the crash site. While no flames were visible, crews were seen pouring water on the crash site.
The Trojan is a propeller driven aircraft that was used to train pilots in the 1950s and 1960s.
Evans, a professional geologist, holds an airline transport pilot licence, a T-28 endorsement and a low-level acrobatic clearance to 250 feet. Evans had more than 4,100 hours of flight experience.
The weather was clear with some clouds at the time of the crash.
As soon as the plane hit the ground, first responders rushed to the airfield. A search and rescue helicopter landed near the collision.
The crash occurred midway through the second afternoon of performances. The remainder of the show was cancelled.
“4 Wing and CFB Cold Lake and the Cold Lake Air Show express our condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Mr. Evans,” military spokesman Capt. Mat Strong said in an email.
Cold Lake Mayor Craig Copeland was enjoying the show when he heard a large bang.
“I saw the explosion when the plane hit the ground afterwards,” he said. “He crashed his plane right on the (far) runway further out from the audience.”
Copeland shared his condolences.
“It’s a tragic day,” Copeland said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the pilot and everybody in Cold Lake’s prayers are with them.”
An investigation will be conducted into the crash, Strong said.