Concerns raised over oversight and regulation after glider crash in Northern Colorado

Emergency responders were called to the scene of a glider crash near a secluded airfield in Northern Colorado on Wednesday. Authorities suspect that the glider, part of a group of three, hit a power line while descending and crashed on County Road 2. The Larimer County Sheriff's Office is waiting for confirmation from the pilot's family before providing details on the pilot's condition. Public Information Officer Kate Kimble from the Larimer County Sheriff's Office expressed the challenges of responding to such incidents, emphasizing the difficulties involved. The gliders, known as 'ultralights', are commonplace in the area surrounding the airfield, which is privately owned. Concerns were raised by locals regarding the proximity of power lines to the airstrip, with one resident witnessing the crash aftermath which disrupted power supply to the area. Poudre Valley REA teams worked to restore power and install new lines throughout the day. The airfield, situated outside Berthoud, is a popular spot for gliding and flying smaller aircraft. Some community members have expressed unease over safety risks posed by gliders performing complex maneuvers at low altitudes, calling for increased regulation and oversight from relevant authorities. Residents like Allison Schultz and Dr. Stephen Miller have highlighted the need for more stringent rules and monitoring of ultralights in the wake of recent incidents.