Home / Disasters and Accidents / Community Leader Dies in Plane Crash
Community Leader Dies in Plane Crash
30 May
Summary
- Michael "Mick" Hill, a respected community leader, died in a plane crash.
- Hill was known for his extensive contributions to Crestline's development.
- Investigations into the cause of the crash are underway by aviation authorities.
Michael "Mick" Hill, a 74-year-old prominent figure in Crestline, lost his life in a plane crash on Saturday, May 23, near Woodlake, California. The National Transportation Safety Board is actively investigating the circumstances that led to the crash. Reports indicate Hill's single-engine Mooney M20 aircraft went down after attempting to return to the Woodlake Airport, impacting a power line and resulting in a fire.
Hill was a celebrated community leader, owning Mick Hill Enterprises, a contracting firm that developed local properties. He also led the Crestline - Lake Gregory Rotary Club and was instrumental in economic development initiatives, including the Crestline Dam Committee and the Rim of the World Recreation and Park District. Many residents fondly referred to him as the "mayor of Crestline" due to his extensive service.
Beyond his business and civic roles, Hill was known for his philanthropy, including purchasing the Alpine Mountaineer newspaper to ensure community news continued. Friends recall his generosity and business acumen, with some speculating about potential health-related factors in the crash. Hill had been planning to retire to Tulare County.
