Young girl dies in tragic Wyoming plane crash

In northern Wyoming, a tragic aviation accident occurred late Monday afternoon in the Bighorn Mountains, claiming the life of a 13-year-old girl named Amelia Palmer. The crash took place near Big Mountain, an 8,200-foot peak approximately 15 miles west of Sheridan. Authorities received reports around 4:57 p.m. MDT regarding a person either injured or lost in the area, which led to the discovery of the wreckage by a medical helicopter conducting an aerial search. Rescue teams were dispatched to the crash site to provide immediate assistance to the surviving family members who were aboard the small plane. The small aircraft, a Piper PA-28-180, was carrying a family of four at the time of the crash. Alongside Amelia, her 11-year-old brother, father Earl Palmer, and mother Cindy Palmer were also on board. Sadly, the medical teams confirmed that Amelia was deceased at the crash site. Her family members sustained various injuries and were transported to hospitals for further medical care. The family's critical injuries drew significant concern and support from the local community as they awaited updates regarding their conditions. In the aftermath of the incident, rescue and medical teams, coordinated by the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office, set up a command post to manage the operation while authorities began an investigation into the cause of the crash. According to statements from the sheriff's office, the Federal Aviation Administration was notified and was en route to the scene to assist in the investigation. This tragic event has garnered attention from both local and national media, leading to an outpouring of support for the Palmer family. A GoFundMe campaign launched for them raised over $25,000 within a short period, highlighting the community's solidarity during this difficult time. As the investigation continues, the community remains in shock over the loss of Amelia and the injuries sustained by her family. The sheriff remarked on the fluid nature of the scene, emphasizing the importance of ongoing support for the victims and their relatives. Authorities stressed that determining the cause of the crash was a priority, and updates would be shared as more information became available. The impact of this tragedy not only affects the immediate family but resonates throughout the community as they come to terms with this loss.