The identity of two pilots killed in a helicopter crash in the Kimberley on Thursday can be revealed, as tragic new details about the collision begin to emerge. Peter Ritter, 29, and Gavin U’Ren, 30, are the two young pilots who tragically lost their lives on Thursday morning after their helicopters collided at a cattle station near Derby. Emergency services rushed to the scene of the crash near Mt Anderson Station in Camballin, about 120km south of Derby.
Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today WA Police and emergency services were called to the crash about 6.20am, with early indications suggesting two cattle mustering helicopters collided shortly after take-off. It’s understood at least one of the choppers caught fire after it crashed to the ground.
Each chopper only had the pilot aboard. Mr Ritter and Mr U’Ren died at the scene from their injuries. Both of their families have been notified about the tragedy.
Both men worked for Pearl Coast Helicopters — a Broome-based helicopter company specialising in aerial stock mustering. In a statement, the company said: “Pearl Coast Helicopters is deeply saddened to report the tragic loss of two of our valued and highly experienced pilots in a helicopter accident on Mount Anderson Station earlier today. “This accident is devastating and we express our condolences to the family and friends of the pilots involved, as well as our team, who are profoundly impacted by this loss.
“Ensuring the safety of our employees.