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Report into Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson chopper crash delayed until September

The ATSB has extended its investigation into the chopper crash that killed Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson, delaying the release of its findings by three months.

Graphics and pictures from the ATSB report into the chopper crash in which Outback Wrangler star Chris "Willow" Wilson died.
Graphics and pictures from the ATSB report into the chopper crash in which Outback Wrangler star Chris "Willow" Wilson died.

The findings of an investigation into the chopper crash that killed Outback Wrangler star Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson have been delayed.

The report – originally scheduled for June – is now expected in September, 17 months after Wilson was killed collecting crocodile eggs.

An Australian Transport and Safety Bureau spokesman said the report was delayed thanks to repeated changes to the scope of the investigation.

Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson was killed in a helicopter crash in the Northern Territory on February 28 last year.
Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson was killed in a helicopter crash in the Northern Territory on February 28 last year.

“During a recent regular management scoping review, it was determined that due to the complex nature of this investigation, the release of the final report is now anticipated for the third quarter of this year,” the spokesman said.

“By their nature ATSB investigations are complex and dynamic and it is common for investigation time frames and scopes to be adjusted as evidence is analysed and further evidence is obtained as the investigation team develops its findings.”

The destroyed Robinson R44 was owned and operated by fellow TV star Matt Wright’s company Helibrook, which is being investigated by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Several people have been charged in relation to the aftermath of the crash, including Mr Wright, helicopter pilot Michael Burbidge, and former police officer Neil Mellon.

sierra.haigh@news.com.au

Original URL: https://www.ntnews.com.au/news/northern-territory/report-into-chris-willow-wilson-chopper-crash-delayed-until-september/news-story/f81890a6698360b5ea040c44ebe4df6e