OBIT: Ted Stevens Dead in Alaska Plane Crash:Patty Murray Offers condolences!

Ted Stevens was among the five people killed in a plane crash last night in remote western Alaska, a former aide to the ex-US senator tells KTUU in Anchorage. Former NASA administrator Sean O'Keefe was also believed to be among the nine people on the aircraft, but his fate is unknown, the AP reports. In 1978, Stevens survived a plane crash that killed 5 people, including his first wife, Ann, notes the New York Times.

U.S. Senator Patty Murray released the following statement Tuesday:


“Today we lost a committed public servant, a strong fighter for the Pacific Northwest, a husband, father, and loyal friend to me and so many others. I was proud to serve with Ted Stevens in the United States Senate. And my thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and loved ones of everyone we lost in this tragic accident.

“I fondly remember my trip to China with Senator Stevens back in 2006. As a former Flying Tiger in World War II, he had a long and unique history with China, and his service was respected and hailed wherever we went.

Senator Stevens was a passionate fighter for his state and for the Pacific Northwest. We certainly had our disagreements, but I was proud to join him to fight for our region’s fisheries, coasts, and other priorities. And we worked closely together to make sure our armed forces and veterans were getting the resources they deserved.

“Senator Stevens dedicated his life to his family and to the public he served for so many years. His passion, commitment, and friendship will be missed, and I join with people from the Pacific Northwest and across the country in mourning this loss and in offering my condolences to his wife Catherine, his children, and the many others who loved him dearly.”