Representative Mary Peltola of Alaska has shared the grievous news of her husband’s death following a recent plane crash in the state. The announcement was conveyed to the public through a statement on Peltola’s X account on September 13.
Statements from both the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board have provided insights about the tragic incident. They verified that a single-engine plane met with an accident after it took off on Tuesday night close to St. Mary’s in Alaska’s western mountainous region. Peltola was flying the plane and was the only person onboard.
The statement from Mary Peltola offered a glimpse into Eugene Peltola Jr.‘s life, affectionately termed “Buzzy” by those close to him. She portrayed him as a versatile and gifted individual, whose sense of humor often brightened difficult moments. His steadfast commitment to his family, with a particular emphasis on his love for Mary, was underscored.
With an impressive professional journey, Eugene Peltola Jr., 57, formerly held the position of regional director of the Bureau of Indian Affairs for Alaska. He also made notable contributions to the US Fish and Wildlife Service in Alaska. His untimely demise is a significant loss for political and community entities in the state.
Expressing her condolences, Alaska’s Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski acknowledged Peltola Jr.’s affable nature, generous spirit, and captivating charm, all of which endeared him to many in Alaska.
Last year, Mary Peltola achieved a historic victory by clinching a special election for the congressional seat of Alaska. Her win marked her as the first indigenous Alaskan in Congress and the first member of the Democratic Party to obtain the seat in nearly 50 years, earning her substantial respect in Alaska.
Given the challenging terrain and persistent infrastructural hurdles, air travel in Alaska has long been associated with significant risks.