The devastated family of a pilot tragically witnessed his fatal crash in Western Australia’s Wheatbelt region. The incident occurred on Little Hill Road in Beverley, approximately 130km southeast of Perth, on Saturday morning.

The pilot, identified as John Willson, 69, sustained serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the crash site. Willson lived with his wife, Marlene, in a nearby residence.

According to reports, Willson’s family contacted emergency services after witnessing his yellow ultralight aircraft go down in a nearby field. It is believed that he had taken off from a private runway on his property before the crash occurred.

The pilot, understood to be the only person onboard the plane, was seriously injured (pictured, a map showing Beverley, WA)

Authorities have revealed that the pilot was the sole occupant of the aircraft. “It’s a terrible situation for the family who were present at the time and may have seen this happen,” said Wheatbelt Police Inspector Jason Beesley to The West Australian.

Willson was an experienced microlight enthusiast who had been involved in the hobby since the early 2000s. He had taken multiple flights earlier in the day before the tragic incident occurred.

Inspector Beesley expressed his condolences and assured the family of the police’s support during this difficult time. He also mentioned that the local community in Beverley would rally behind them.

Microlight aircrafts are controlled by shifting the center of gravity, according to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. They are equipped with either a two or four-stroke engine.

Emergency services, including the police, St John Ambulance, and the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, responded to the crash site. Recreation Aviation Australia has been notified of the pilot’s death, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.