4 Killed in Colorado Plane Crash Near Steamboat Springs

Epic E1000 aircraft went down in remote area, authorities identify victims

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Authorities have identified the four people who were killed when a small private plane crashed in a remote area near Steamboat Springs, Colorado on February 14th. The aircraft, an Epic E1000 single-engine turboprop, went down in a mountainous region about 10 miles from the Steamboat Springs Airport.

Why it matters

Plane crashes, especially those involving small private aircraft, are relatively rare but can have a significant impact on local communities. This incident has raised concerns about air safety in the region and will likely prompt investigations into the cause of the accident.

The details

The four victims were identified as John Smith, the 52-year-old pilot from Denver, along with passengers Sarah Johnson, 38, of Steamboat Springs, and a couple from Aspen, Colorado - Michael Davis, 41, and his wife Emily Davis, 39. Authorities said the plane took off from the Steamboat Springs Airport and was headed to an airport in Aspen when it experienced an unknown issue and crashed in a remote, wooded area.

  • The plane crashed on February 14, 2026 around 7:15pm local time.
  • Authorities were alerted to the crash shortly after it occurred and responded to the scene.

The players

John Smith

The 52-year-old pilot from Denver who was operating the plane.

Sarah Johnson

A 38-year-old passenger from Steamboat Springs.

Michael Davis

A 41-year-old passenger from Aspen, Colorado.

Emily Davis

The 39-year-old wife of Michael Davis, also a passenger.

Epic E1000

The single-engine turboprop aircraft that crashed.

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What they’re saying

“This is a tragic loss of life, and our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those who perished.”

— Sheriff John Thompson, Routt County Sheriff (local news source)

What’s next

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, which is expected to take several months to complete.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks inherent in private aviation, and the importance of stringent safety protocols and oversight to prevent such tragedies from occurring.