Outback Wrangler Matt Wright will ‘vigorously’ defend charges in relation to fatal chopper crash

Matt Wright has strenuously denied allegations of wrongdoing in relation to his actions before and after a chopper crash that killed Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson. Here’s what he said.

Outback Wrangler Matt Wright has strenuously denied allegations of wrongdoing in relation to a helicopter crash that killed his best mate.

Sky News revealed on Monday that an arrest warrant had been issued for Wright in relation to events before and after the crash that killed Chris “Willow” Wilson on February 28.

Police have asked Mr Wright to attend a police station in Darwin by 9am on Wednesday where he is expected to be charged with offences including perverting the course of justice, destruction of evidence, fabricating evidence, interfering with witnesses and two counts of unlawful entry.

Matt Wright, who has been living in Queensland, has been asked by police to appear at a Darwin police station by 9am Wednesday, 30 November. Picture: Michael Franchi

In a statement, a spokesman for Mr Wright told Sky News:

“Matt strenuously denies any wrongdoing. What happened was a tragic accident that took the life of a close mate.”

Wright was one of four people who flew to the crash scene immediately after the accident that killed Wilson and seriously injured pilot Sebastian Robinson.

Police will allege Wright tampered with evidence at the scene, an allegation he denies.

“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.”

Matt Wright's Wild Territory series was dedicated to the late Chris 'Willow' Wilson. Picture: Channel 9

Police will also allege Mr Wright regularly disconnected the hours meter on the chopper involved in the crash, as well as other helicopters operated by Wright’s company, Helibrook.

The Australian newspaper has previously reported the helicopter involved in the February 28 crash underwent a 100-hour service just three weeks before the crash and was deemed safe to operate.

“Two days before the accident, Matt and his family flew in the same helicopter,” Mr Wright’s spokesman told the newspaper on November 7.

“There is no way Matt would put his team or his family in danger. Matt’s priority has always been the safety of his team and his helicopters.”

*Matt Cunningham is the Sky News Northern Australia Correspondent