4 Californians Killed In Plane Crash

NORTHRIDGE, CA — Officials say a plane that crashed in Western Oregon Friday morning was carrying a Thousand Oaks family of three. They, along with the pilot, were killed in the crash.

The Linn County Sheriff's Office identified the victims of the crash as:

• Mark Gregory Aletky, 67, Acton, CA (pilot)
• John A. Zitting, 42, Thousand Oaks, CA
• Karen Blackmore Zitting, 42, Thousand Oaks, CA
• John Brendan Zitting, 17, Thousand Oaks, CA

The plane left Van Nuys Airport Friday at approximately 7:22 a.m., en route to Eugene, Oregon. As Aletky approached the Eugene Airport, witnesses say the Piper single-engine, six-seater suddenly turned and crashed into a grass field, according to the Linn County Sheriff's Office. Aletky was hired by Park City Aviation in Park City, Utah for the flight and was a certified pilot.

The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration arrived on scene Friday at 4:40 p.m. to assist with the investigation. Linn County Sheriff deputies were also assisted by the Harrisburg Fire Department. The wreckage is scheduled to be removed this weekend.

Image via Linn County Sheriff's Office