Reality TV star Matt Wright has been charged after handing himself in at a Darwin police station
Reality TV star Matt Wright has been charged by police in relation to a fatal helicopter crash. Read the charges.
Northern Territory
Don't miss out on the headlines from Northern Territory. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Outback Wrangler star Matt Wright, 43, has been charged in relation to a fatal helicopter crash that killed Chris “Willow” Wilson in February this year.
The Netflix star touched down in Darwin amid chaotic scenes about 11.35am ACST on Tuesday from Sydney, and he presented at the Knuckey St police station just after 2pm.
Wright’s lawyer left the police station soon after and Mr Wright was later taken to Palmerston Police Station.
On Tuesday evening, he was charged with attempting to pervert the course of justice, destroying evidence and fabricating evidence relating to the fatal chopper crash.
He was also charged with unlawfully entering a building, unlawfully entering a dwelling and making a false declaration.
Police also charged Wright with threats/reprisals – interfere with witnesses involved in a criminal investigation or court processes.
He was bailed to appear in Darwin Local Court at 9.30am on Wednesday.
His bail conditions prohibit him from contacting certain people and instruct him to only reside at a particular address.
It comes after NT Police issued a warrant for the reality television star’s arrest on Monday morning.
He was given until 9am Wednesday to attend a Darwin police station.
Video: Outback Wrangler star Matt Wright looks anxious as he walks through the Sydney domestic airport terminal before boarding his flight to Darwin.
— Liam Mendes (@liammendes) November 28, 2022
He is expected to face serious charges related to the February chopper crash that killed cast member Chris “Willow†Wilson. pic.twitter.com/o8HGgf7N1B
Wright has strenuously denied allegations of wrongdoing in relation to the helicopter crash.
In a statement, a spokesman for Mr Wright told Sky News on Monday: “Matt strenuously denies any wrongdoing. What happened was a tragic accident that took the life of a close mate.”
“His immediate concern following the accident was the condition of the two team members on board at the time,” the spokesman said.
“The next priority was ensuring the other helicopters and team members at the site weren’t at risk and that the location was safe.
“Matt will not be making any further statement but he will be vigorously defending the charges.”
Mr Wilson, 34, was on a job collecting crocodile eggs in a remote area of West Arnhem Land when the helicopter he was travelling in crashed on February 28.
Chopper pilot Sebastian Robinson suffered serious spinal injuries in the crash.
Mr Wright was one of four people who subsequently flew to the scene in another helicopter.
Two of those people – helicopter pilot Michael Burbidge and police officer Neil Mellon – have been charged with various offences, including destroying evidence.
Last month a court heard one of the NT’s most prominent businessmen – crocodile farmer Mick Burns – was also at the crash site and was “inextricably linked” to the events.
There are no suggestions, and the court did not hear any evidence or allegations of, any wrongdoing against Mr Burns.
More Coverage
Originally published as Reality TV star Matt Wright has been charged after handing himself in at a Darwin police station
Darwin man dead after alleged stabbing by uncle
A man has been arrested in relation to the alleged stabbing death of his nephew in Malak. Latest from police.
Read more
‘Going to shoot everyone’: Darwin man jailed for attack after 18th birthday party brawl
After being kicked out of an 18th birthday party for brawling, David Ochaya decided to confront a fellow partygoer the following morning. What the Judge said.
Read more