Last Updated on February 7, 2019 by CCAR Staff
Officials on Wednesday identified four family members who died in a home Sunday when a small plane crashed into a Yorba Linda neighborhood, also killing the pilot.
Carrie Braun, spokeswoman for the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, said the sheriff’s Coroner Division identified those killed in the house as the married couple who owned the home, Roy Lee Anderson, 85; and Dahlia Marlies Leber Anderson, 68; along with a daughter-in-law, Stacie Norene Leber, 48, of Corona; and a son-in-law, Donald Paul Elliott, 58, of Norco.
The home caught fire after being struck by the plane or parts of it. Officials are still investigating what may have caused the crash.
Two other family members on the ground sustained moderate injuries from Sunday’s crash. They were taken to UC Irvine Health Regional Burn Center, where they were treated and released Sunday, officials said.
Officials earlier identified Nevada restaurant owner Antonio Pastini, 75, as the pilot who died after his twin-engine 1981 Cessna 414A appeared to break apart before crashing.
In a statement distributed by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, family of those killed thanked first responders, Trauma Intervention Programs Inc., the Coroner Division, UCI Medical Center, Yorba Linda city personnel and surrounding communities; and the National Transportation Safety Board, which is investigating the crash.
The family members said they were devastated by the loss of those killed and said they’d be greatly missed.
“Our family bond is tight and each member lost in this tragedy represents more than just one role within our family. We lost parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, spouses, sisters, brothers, aunts and uncles. The home lost was a beacon for so many family and friends where many celebrations were held,” the statement said. “We want to thank our extended family and friends who have provided amazing support, kindness and compassion. It takes a village.”
The family asked the media for privacy, according to the statement.
The city of Yorba Linda has invited community members to a candlelight vigil to honor the plane crash victims and support their families at the outdoor courtyard of Glenknoll Elementary School, 6361 Glenknoll Drive, at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7.
Yorba Linda Mayor Tara Campbell and local clerics will speak at the event, which is expected to last about 30 minutes.
Carpooling is encouraged because of limited parking.
The city said attendees are encouraged to park at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, 19767 Yorba Linda Blvd. A shuttle will transport attendees between the church and school from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Those seeking additional information can contact Wendy Rawley at Wendy@go2wendy.com.
