Among those who assisted were teams from Guardian Flight, LifeMed Alaska, Maritime Helicopters, the U.S. Coast Guard, and Alaska State Park Rangers, all of whom coordinated efforts to provide medical evacuation and secure the area for further investigation.

The surviving passenger, whose identity has not been revealed to the public, was quickly transported by medevac to an Anchorage hospital in critical condition. The severity of the injuries sustained is still being evaluated by medical personnel, but authorities have indicated that his condition is being closely monitored.

The crash site was thoroughly examined by the Alaska State Troopers and a National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigator, who accompanied troopers to begin the official inquiry. NTSB Alaska Chief Clint Johnson reported that the crash occurred during the aircraft’s landing phase at Nanwalek Airport. A preliminary review of the situation suggested that the challenging runway conditions might have contributed to the plane’s inability to land safely, although the exact cause of the crash remains unknown at this stage.

Victims Identified

Daniel Bunker, 48 – Pilot

Daniel Bunker, a seasoned 48-year-old pilot from Homer, was identified as the pilot of the aircraft. Known for his experience flying in the rugged and often treacherous conditions of Alaska, Bunker was no stranger to the challenges of flying in and out of remote villages like Nanwalek. Those who knew him described him as a dedicated professional and a member of the tight-knit aviation community in Homer.

While the news of his tragic death has stunned his colleagues and the residents of Homer, the focus is now on ensuring that the investigation sheds light on the precise factors that led to the crash. Bunker’s passing leaves a void in the local aviation industry, where he was well-regarded for his skill and professionalism in navigating Alaska’s harsh terrain.

Jenny Miller, 37 – Passenger

Jenny Miller, a 37-year-old Anchorage resident, was traveling as a passenger on the flight. Tragically, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Friends and family of Miller have described her as an outgoing and adventurous spirit who loved traveling and exploring the beauty of Alaska. Her sudden death has left her loved ones in shock, as they await further details on the circumstances of the crash.

Miller’s presence on the flight, en route to Nanwalek, highlights the importance of small aircraft for both locals and visitors in rural Alaskan communities. Her death has deeply affected the Anchorage community, where she was known for her warmth and generosity.

Unidentified Male Passenger – Survivor

A second male passenger was on board the plane at the time of the crash. Although his identity has not been publicly revealed, it has been confirmed that he sustained critical injuries. After the crash, emergency medical teams worked swiftly to evacuate him by airlift to an Anchorage hospital for specialized treatment. The nature of his injuries has not been disclosed, but authorities have stated that his condition is being closely monitored.

At this time, it remains unclear whether the surviving passenger will recover from the injuries he sustained in the crash. His family and friends are holding onto hope, as medical personnel continue to treat him with the utmost care. The survivor’s identity may be released once family members have been notified and provided with the necessary support during this difficult time.

Nanwalek’s Remote Location and Its Reliance on Air Travel

Nanwalek, a village of approximately 200 residents located at the mouth of Cook Inlet, is known for its stunning natural beauty and its remote location. Situated on the southern coast of the Kenai Peninsula, Nanwalek is only accessible by small aircraft or boat, as there are no road connections to the community. This isolation places a heavy reliance on air travel for transportation, medical evacuations, and the delivery of essential supplies.

For many residents of Nanwalek, small aircraft are the lifeline to the rest of Alaska and beyond. Flights to and from Homer, a larger town on the Kenai Peninsula, are essential for access to jobs, medical care, and education. Because of this reliance on air travel, accidents like the one on April 28 are particularly devastating, as they disrupt not only the lives of those directly involved but also the entire community that depends on these services for survival.

This plane crash has left the village in mourning, as locals come to grips with the loss of two lives and the injury of a third. In a place where nearly every family has someone who depends on air travel to meet basic needs, the tragedy has underscored the inherent risks involved in flying in such a rugged environment.

The Investigation Process and Its Challenges

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated a full investigation into the cause of the crash. According to NTSB Alaska Chief Clint Johnson, the primary focus will be to examine the conditions of the runway at Nanwalek Airport, the aircraft’s flight data, and other relevant factors, including weather conditions at the time of the crash.

Given the remote location of the crash site, the investigation is expected to take several weeks or even months to complete. In addition to the challenges posed by the physical location of the crash, the investigators must also consider the possibility of mechanical failure, human error, or other contributing factors. The fact that the plane was in the process of landing when the incident occurred suggests that the circumstances surrounding the crash could involve a combination of multiple factors.

The NTSB is expected to release preliminary findings in the coming weeks, although it may take longer to determine the official cause of the crash. Meanwhile, the Alaska State Troopers are continuing to support the victims’ families and provide assistance to the surviving passenger as they await further details.

Community’s Response and Support

In the wake of this tragedy, the Nanwalek community, along with residents from surrounding areas, has come together to support the families of the victims. Fundraisers and community events have been organized to help cover funeral costs and provide financial assistance to those affected by the loss. Local churches and community centers have also opened their doors to offer counseling services for those struggling to cope with the sudden loss of life.

The outpouring of support has been a testament to the strength of the Alaskan spirit and the close bonds that tie these remote communities together. As the investigation continues and more details emerge, the residents of Nanwalek remain hopeful that answers will come, but for now, they are united in their grief and in their commitment to one another during this difficult time.

Conclusion

The fatal plane crash near Nanwalek on April 28, 2025, is a devastating reminder of the risks associated with small aircraft operations in Alaska’s rugged and remote regions. As the investigation into the cause of the crash unfolds, the families of the victims—Daniel Bunker, Jenny Miller, and the unnamed male passenger—are left to cope with the unimaginable loss of their loved ones. The second passenger’s critical condition remains a source of concern, and the community of Nanwalek, along with the wider Alaskan public, continues to offer their support during this tragic period. The NTSB’s thorough investigation will hopefully provide the answers needed to prevent future tragedies, but for now, the focus remains on supporting those affected by this heart-wrenching event.