FORT MORGAN, Colo. — Kristen Morris, 35, Dies in Midair Collision at Fort Morgan Municipal Airport
FORT MORGAN, Colo. — Kristen Morris, 35, Dies in Midair Collision at Fort Morgan Municipal Airport
FORT MORGAN, Colo. — Authorities confirmed that Kristen Morris, 35, of Denver, passed away following a midair collision at Fort Morgan Municipal Airport over the holiday weekend. The tragic accident occurred late Sunday morning, involving two single-engine planes during routine flight operations.
Morris was piloting one of the aircraft when the collision occurred. Emergency responders were dispatched immediately to the scene, but despite their rapid arrival and efforts, she was pronounced deceased. The second aircraft’s pilot survived with minor injuries.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and local law enforcement are investigating the circumstances of the accident. Preliminary reports indicate that both planes were operating under visual flight rules at the time of the incident.
Fort Morgan Municipal Airport temporarily suspended operations as first responders secured the scene and assisted in the investigation. The airport authority confirmed that no other individuals on the ground were injured during the collision.
Family, friends, and the aviation community are mourning the loss of Kristen Morris. She was remembered as an experienced pilot with a passion for aviation and a dedication to her community. Tributes poured in from both local and broader pilot networks.
Witnesses reported seeing the two single-engine planes in close proximity before the collision. Authorities continue to collect eyewitness accounts, radar data, and flight logs to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Officials emphasized the importance of safety protocols and clear communication during flight operations, particularly when multiple aircraft are operating in the same airspace. They reiterated that investigations often take time to ensure all contributing factors are identified.
Local law enforcement and FAA investigators are asking anyone with information about the accident to come forward. Witness accounts and other evidence are critical to reconstructing the events leading up to the midair collision.
A memorial is expected to be held by family and friends to honor Kristen Morris’s life and contributions to the aviation community. Colleagues described her as a skilled pilot who inspired others with her dedication and professionalism.
The Fort Morgan and Denver communities are expressing condolences to Morris’s family. Her life and legacy are being remembered for her passion for flight, her kindness, and her impact on those who knew her, both in the aviation world and beyond.
