Jeffrey Tuning, Amanda Benson Obituary, Death; Authorities ID victims in deadly Navajo Nation plane crash.
Jeffrey Tuning, Amanda Benson Obituary, Death – Authorities have released the identities of the four individuals who lost their lives in a tragic medical plane crash on the Navajo Nation shortly after departing Albuquerque.
The aircraft, operated by CSI Aviation, was carrying two pilots and two medical crew members at the time of the crash. Officials named the victims as pilots Jeffrey Tuning and Amanda Benson, along with Kameilia Chavez, a flight nurse, and Nicholas Mancuso, a flight paramedic. None of them survived the accident.
In a heartfelt statement, William Collins, Chief Operating Officer of CSI Aviation, expressed deep sorrow on behalf of the company. He emphasized that the loss had profoundly affected the entire organization, saying, “Our main concern right now is with the families and loved ones of the friends we lost this week. The collective heart of our company is broken.” Collins extended condolences to all who are grieving, adding that the victims will be remembered for their remarkable contributions and character. “We are sharing your grief, praying for your peace and healing, and believing without a doubt that none of these exceptional human beings will be forgotten,” he said.
The crash took place on August 5, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The plane went down while attempting to land at the airport in Chinle, Arizona, a community on the Navajo Nation. At the time of the incident, the medical aircraft was not transporting any patients, only the flight crew.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken the lead in investigating the cause of the crash. While the exact reason remains unknown, investigators are working to determine what went wrong during the landing attempt. CSI Aviation has pledged full cooperation with federal authorities in uncovering the details of the incident.
In addition to assisting investigators, CSI Aviation has called for patience and privacy for the victims’ families during this difficult time. The company is focused on providing support to the relatives and close friends of those who perished, recognizing the profound loss they are facing.
This crash has deeply affected not only the aviation company but also the wider medical and emergency response community, as all four victims were dedicated professionals committed to saving lives. Their work often took them into challenging situations to deliver urgent medical care to those in need, and their absence leaves a significant gap both personally and professionally.
While the investigation continues, the focus remains on honoring the memories of Tuning, Benson, Chavez, and Mancuso, and providing comfort to their grieving families. The tragedy serves as a solemn reminder of the risks faced by aviation and medical personnel in the course of their vital work.
Authorities are expected to release further details once the NTSB completes its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
