Man dies in glider crash near Ephrata

EPHRATA — A man from Richland died on Friday after his glider reportedly crashed about eight miles west of Ephrata.

Kyle Roberson, 64, of Richland, was reportedly piloting an Alexander Schleicher model ASW28-18 sailplane plane on Friday when he crashed into a field near Baird Springs Road Northwest and Road J Northwest. Roberson died upon impact, according to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office.

The Grant County Coroner’s Office will be conducting an autopsy. The sheriff’s office states the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash.

“I’m saddened by this news so early in the Memorial Day weekend, when people are enjoying their hobbies such as gliding,” Sheriff Tom Jones said. “I pray Mr. Roberson’s family and friends will find peace and I will continue to pray for them.”

— Staff report