MADRAS, Ore. (AP) — Authorities say two people died in a small plane crash near a central Oregon airport where people are gathering to view the solar eclipse.
The Central Oregon Emergency Information Network says the pilot and a passenger were killed in the crash about 2 p.m. Saturday about a mile south of Madras Municipal Airport. Authorities did not identify the victims.
Jefferson County Sheriff Jim Adkin says the crash started a brushfire on a cliff.
Campers have been gathering at the airport for Monday’s eclipse.
About 200,000 people are expected in the area that’s considered a prime viewing spot as the moon completely blots out the sun.
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