The Sheriff’s Department is now able to disclose that the parties involved are identified as 65-year-old Robert Coester from Gilbert, Arizona, and 71-year-old Charles McCurry from Pennsylvania.
The initial investigation indicates the F-1 Rocket brand single engine plane, owned/built by Charles, lost power on its final approach to the Sedona Airport. Realizing the aircraft would be unable to make it to the Sedona Airport, Robert stated Charles (an experienced pilot of 34 years) took control of the aircraft making a banking maneuver directing the aircraft in a southern direction. According to Robert, Charles was able to land the aircraft in a safe area on Chavez Ranch Rd. The aircraft sustained heavy damage during the landing.
Robert was transported by ground ambulance to the Verde Valley Medical Center in stable condition with head injuries including a broken left ankle. His injuries are not life threatening. Charles was also transported by ground ambulance to the Sedona Medical Center where he was subsequently air lifted to the Flagstaff Regional Medical Center with multiple facial fractures, facial lacerations and contusions to his lungs. Despite the injuries sustained by Charles, hospital personnel stated he was in stable condition.
The NTSB is investigating the cause of the crash. The plane has since been removed from the crash site.