Grays Harbor County, WA (July 17, 2025) — A remote area of Olympic National Park became the site of a tragic aviation accident earlier this week when a small aircraft went down on a steep, forested slope.

News sources show the Murphy SR3500 Moose plane crashed near the Irely Lake Trailhead in the park’s southwest region on the evening of July 15. The crash occurred in a rugged section near Quinault, and park rangers were first alerted to the scene at approximately 6:50 p.m.

Naval Air Station Whidbey Island Search and Rescue teams reached the remote location and rescued all three occupants of the aircraft. Tragically, one person was later confirmed dead. The two survivors were transported to a trauma center for medical treatment. Their conditions have not been disclosed.

The National Transportation Safety Board is currently investigating the cause of the crash.

Protect Your Rights After a Fatal Accident Today

After a fatal aviation accident, surviving victims and the families of those lost may face mounting medical costs, emotional distress, and insurance complications. Seeking experienced legal counsel early can help preserve evidence, secure fair compensation, and navigate the complexities of dealing with aviation-related claims. Especially in cases involving federal investigations and park jurisdiction, an attorney can provide essential guidance and advocacy. If you or someone you know has been affected by an aircraft crash, taking legal action promptly ensures your rights are protected during this challenging time.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

The information in this article is based on initial reports from local authorities and may be subject to updates as investigations continue.

• The identities of those involved in the incident have not been released pending official confirmation and notification of next of kin.
• Further details about the accident, including toxicology results and potential charges, will be shared as they become available.
• Road closures and traffic updates related to the accident scene can be found by checking with local authorities or traffic monitoring services.

The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports at the time of publication, and details may change as investigations progress. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know have been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more with our disclaimer.