Tragedy as four die in plane crash

Local victims named as part of police investigation following fatal collision

Statement from the police confirms four fatalities following a light plane crash.

Devastating news has emerged today as police have confirmed four Victorian residents have died in a light plane crash. Emergency services were called to the scene in Gippsland, in Victoria's east, at 11:45 am this morning following reports of a plane crash. Sadly, upon arrival, they located the wreckage of the plane and confirmed the four occupants had died.

Police have identified the victims as the pilot, 57-year-old Geoffrey "Geoff" Boyes, from Hastings, and three passengers: 72-year-old Barbara Howe, from Tootgarook; 74-year-old John Dunne, from Tootgarook; and 66-year-old Frank Tyson, from Mount Eliza.

Investigations into the cause of the crash are underway, with police appealing for anyone with information to come forward. A report will also be prepared for the Coroner. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims at this difficult time.