WASHINGTON (TNND) — North Dakota Democratic state Rep. Liz Conmy and the pilot of a small plane died when they crashed shortly after takeoff near Crystal Airport in a Minneapolis suburb.
The Beech F33A that Conmy and the pilot were in went down in Brooklyn Park, Minn., and caught fire on Saturday, Fox News reported.
“Liz served her state and community with care and compassion, from her service in the Legislature and on the state's Human Trafficking Commission to her work on education, habitat and immigration,” North Dakota GOP Gov. Kelly Armstrong said in a statement.
“Kjersti and I are saddened by this tragic loss and offer our deepest condolences to her family, friends and fellow legislators. We ask North Dakotans to join us in keeping them in our prayers.”
Armstrong ordered all U.S. and North Dakota flags to be flown at half-staff from dawn to dusk on the day of Conmy's interment and encouraged state residents to do likewise at their homes and businesses.
“I am heartbroken by the tragic passing of Rep. Conmy, a dear friend and former colleague with whom I had the privilege of serving in the state House,” North Dakota GOP Lt. Gov. Michelle Strinden said in a statement.
“Liz brought integrity, compassion and unwavering dedication to her work on the Education and Judiciary committees, and I was proud to partner with her on efforts to strengthen our schools. My thoughts are with her family and all who knew and loved her.”
The Federal Aviation Administration said two people were aboard the plane, but the pilot has not been immediately identified publicly.
The National Transportation Safety Board is expected to investigate the scene this week, Fox 9 reported.
The North Dakota Democratic-Nonpartisan League Party posted on X on Saturday, “We are completely heartbroken and gutted by the loss of Representative Liz Conmy. Her death is a profound loss for our state. As a lawmaker, she championed public education, the environment, and transparency.
“Liz had a natural ability to make friendships across the political spectrum. We send our deepest condolences to her children, family, and friends.”
Brooklyn Park Police Inspector Matt Rabe said officers received a call at 11:51 a.m. following a report of a small plane crash in a park area. The Brooklyn Park Fire Department arrived within minutes and extinguished the plane fire.