JACKSON, Miss. — The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) has identified the three crew members who tragically lost their lives in the AirCare helicopter crash on March 10. The victims, who were dedicated professionals serving the community, are being remembered for their commitment to saving lives and their unwavering service.
The victims include:
- Dustin Pope, 35, of Philadelphia, Mississippi, who served as the base supervisor for AirCare in Columbus and was a flight nurse.
- Jakob Kindt, 37, of Tupelo, Mississippi, a critical care paramedic.
- Cal Wesolowski, 62, of Starkville, Mississippi, the Med-Trans pilot operating the flight.
Both Pope and Kindt had been integral members of UMMC’s AirCare team since joining the Medical Center on August 14, 2017. Their dedication to providing emergency medical care and their bravery in the line of duty have left a lasting impact on their colleagues and the communities they served.
In the wake of the crash, UMMC has temporarily grounded AirCare Transport Services. The Medical Center is working closely with healthcare and medical transportation providers across the state to ensure that emergency care for Mississippians remains uninterrupted during this challenging time.
UMMC has also expressed its deep commitment to supporting the families of the victims, as well as the AirCare and Mississippi Center for Emergency Services teams, as they grieve this devastating loss. Counseling and support services are being made available to help those affected cope with the tragedy.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The loss of Dustin Pope, Jakob Kindt, and Cal Wesolowski has left a profound void in the UMMC community and beyond. Their bravery, dedication, and sacrifice will not be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in their footsteps.
As the investigation continues, the UMMC community is coming together to honor the memories of these fallen heroes and to support their families during this incredibly difficult time. The tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks faced by emergency medical personnel and the importance of their lifesaving work.