On Aug. 31, at approximately 11:30 a.m., Slave Lake RCMP responded to a distress beacon, reported by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre, of a possible plane crash in the area of Marten Mountain, approximately 11 kms northeast of Slave Lake.

The location of the crash was identified in very rugged terrain with dense forested hills and very limited access. On Aug. 31, with the rain and low ceiling for air traffic, the search was limited a ground search with Slave Lake RCMP, Lesser Slave Regional Fire Services and Search and Rescue, Alberta Agricultural and Forestry, and Royal Canadian Air Force Search and Rescue technicians and medic. On Sept. 1, the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Trenton, Ont., deployed Search and Rescue, CC-130H Hercules aircraft from 435 (Transport & Rescue) Squadron located in Winnipeg, Man., and a CH-146 Griffon helicopter from 417 Combat Support Squadron in Cold Lake, Alta., to assist with both ground and air crews.

Due to rugged terrain, dense forest and inclement weather conditions, the search was put on hold during nightfall. Search crews persevered and continued to search until locating the aircraft and lone male pilot, 84-year-old, of Rosthern, Sask., on Sept. 2. The pilot was declared deceased on scene.

The pilot was travelling from Alberta to Saskatchewan. The cause of this plane crash has yet to be determined. The agencies continue to work in partnership. Communication with the pilot’s family continues since Aug. 31.

Slave Lake RCMP investigation continues. RCMP will work in collaboration with the Transportation Safety Board of Canada, who is investigating the cause of this plane crash.

There are no further media releases anticipated.