A small aircraft crash in upstate New York has resulted in the deaths of three members of a New Jersey family, including a young child, according to authorities and news reports.
The victims have been identified as Dr. Gabriele Jasper, 70, her daughter Gabriela Hilgrube, 33, and granddaughter Guiliana Hilgrube, 2. The twin-engine plane went down in the woods near Saranac Lake on Monday night, as reported by State Police.
Dr. Jasper was piloting a 1976 Piper Aerostar 601P, departing from the Adirondack Regional Airport shortly after 10:30 p.m. Reports indicate that he lost contact with air traffic control before crashing at an altitude of around 100 feet.
A search team later located the wreckage, which had been completely destroyed on impact.
Jasper, who lived in Toms River, was an acclaimed spine physician and anesthesiologist. He established the Jasper Spine Institute, which operates two modern facilities in Brick and Milltown.
His daughter, Gabriela Hilgrube, resided in Forked River and worked with her father at the institute. She frequently shared joyful moments with her daughter and husband on social media.
Chris Alderucci, a friend and former colleague, remembered Dr. Jasper in a Facebook tribute, describing him as an outstanding surgeon specializing in spinal conditions.
His passions included car racing, motorcycling, and aviation, but he cherished his family and friends above all. Alderucci noted that many in the medical community would mourn Dr. Jasper’s loss.
The National Transportation Safety Board is currently investigating the crash.
