ELMIRA, Ore. -- The victims of Saturday's plane crash just west of Eugene have been identified as members of the Oregon Country Fair.
According to Lane County Sheriff's Office, 41-year-old Jerome D'Auzon of Eugene, 40-year-old Robyn Weir of Junction City, 37-year-old Christopher Kent of Junction City, and 27-year-old Erin Noble of Eugene all died in the crash.
Just after 9 PM on Sunday, the Oregon Country Fair released a statement saying they are "profoundly saddened" by the loss of their members. "Each generously shared their time, unique talents, and spirit," the statement reads.
The Cessna 172 aircraft crashed shortly after taking off from Crow-Mag airfied. Witnesses say the plane began to lose altitude shortly after takeoff, collided with trees as it came down, and ultimately crashed in a wooded area near Suttle Road. The pilot and all three passengers were pronounced dead at the scene by Lane Rural Fire at approximately 3:34 PM.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the crash, and they say it may take several months before a conclusion is reached.
Country Fair takes place on July 13, 14, and 15 in Veneta this year, and the organization says that, for now, no public memorial is planned for the victims.
