The community of Anaconda, Montana, was jolted by a profound tragedy on Friday when news broke of a helicopter crash near the Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park. The somber reality settled in as officials confirmed the devastating loss of 28-year-old Justin Price, the pilot of the ill-fated aircraft. Bill Everett, the chief executive officer for Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, solemnly disclosed the grim details of the accident, which sent shockwaves throughout the tight-knit community.
Amidst the wreckage, Chief Cody Tocher of the Anaconda Fire Department confirmed that Price was the sole occupant of the helicopter at the time of the crash. The aircraft, contracted by the Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO) for revegetation and reclamation efforts, was tragically lost in the skies above Anaconda. The close ties between the helicopter, registered in Deer Lodge, and the local community only deepened the sense of sorrow and loss that enveloped Anaconda in the wake of the tragedy.
As the news reverberated across the region, hearts heavy with grief turned to action as Mattie Dunlop from Garrison, Montana, stepped forward to offer support to Price’s grieving family. Recognizing the financial strain that accompanies such sudden loss, Dunlop initiated a heartfelt donation campaign in memory of Justin Price. With an unwavering commitment to easing the burden for Price’s expecting wife and three young boys, the fundraising effort swiftly gained traction, drawing an outpouring of generosity from individuals near and far.
The GoFundMe page, established with a lofty goal of $50,000, quickly became a beacon of hope in the midst of darkness, as donations poured in from compassionate souls eager to lend a helping hand. The overwhelming response underscored the profound impact of Price’s life and the depth of empathy within the community, as neighbors united in solidarity to support one another through the darkest of times.
Even as the community rallied around Price’s family, the weight of the loss hung heavy in the air, casting a shadow over Anaconda and prompting reflection on the fragile nature of life. As loved ones grappled with the enormity of their loss, they awaited further details regarding Justin Price’s obituary and funeral arrangements, which would serve as a final opportunity to honor and celebrate his memory.
In the days and weeks to come, Anaconda would bear witness to a community bound together by grief yet strengthened by resilience, as they sought to navigate the difficult journey of healing in the aftermath of tragedy. Though Price may have been taken from them far too soon, his spirit would live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, a guiding light in the darkness, illuminating the path forward with hope and compassion.
