CHUATHBALAK, Alaska-Alaska State Troopers report the fatal crash of an Inland Aviation Cessna 207 inbound to Chuathbalak from Aniak, less than 10 miles away.

The Cessna left Aniak at 7:05 pm last night. The aircraft was piloted by Inlet Aviation’s owner, Stephan Hill, age 61, of Aniak, he was the only occupant of the plane.

A short time later, the airstrip lights at Chuathbalak activated.A squall had moved into the area. The plane that had activated the lights did not arrive. The State Troopers were notified that the plane had not arrived and had not gone back to Aniak. A little later, residents of Chuathbalak heard a plane stall and crash off in the distance.

Troopers and Alaska Wildlife officers arrived at Chuathbalak last night at about 9:15 pm, and joined by volunteers, began searching around the village and downstream from the small community. At approximately 1:45 am, this morning, the plane was located about three miles southwest of Chuathbalak.

It is reported that the aircraft is a total loss. It was determined that the pilot, Stephan Hill, died on impact, although an autopsy has been requested.

Next of kin was notified. NTSB and FAA were also notified and are responding to the scene.