Deadly glider crash under scrutiny in vicinity of Berthoud
In Berthoud, Colorado, on August 13, 2025, a tragic incident occurred when an ultralight glider crashed near the 3600 block of West County Road 2. The crash resulted in the death of a 74-year-old male pilot, identified as Phillip Edward Benson of Boulder, Colorado, following a DNA comparison by the Larimer County Coroner's Office.
The glider was part of a group of three when it collided with power lines during descent, causing the crash. The cause of death was determined to be multiple blunt force injuries, and the manner of death was ruled accidental. A full forensic autopsy was conducted on August 14, 2025.
The Larimer County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation into the crash, and preliminary findings suggest that the glider struck electrical lines before coming to rest on a dirt road. Several power poles and lines were damaged in the incident, resulting in approximately 55 residents losing power immediately following the crash.
Crews worked quickly to restore service to all but three homes and remained on scene to complete repairs and ensure safety. Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire, which was contained to the aircraft.
This incident has raised concerns among local residents about the proximity of power lines to the airstrip and the lack of oversight and regulation of ultralight aircraft or gliders in the area. The Federal Aviation Administration has been notified, and the Larimer County Sheriff's Office is investigating the matter.
Anyone who witnessed the crash and hasn't spoken to investigators is asked to contact Investigator Stephen Gates at 970-498-5169. LCSO Sgt. Justin Williamson expressed condolences to the man's family and the aviation community.
For more information about the Larimer County Sheriff's Office, visit larimer.gov/sheriff.
[1] Larimer County Coroner's Office [2] Berthoud Recorder [4] Coloradoan
- The general-news outlets in Larimer County, including the Larimer County Coroner's Office, Berthoud Recorder, and Coloradoan, have reported on the tragic accident involving an ultralight glider in Berthoud, Colorado, on August 13, 2025.
- Community members concerned about the incident are invited to attend a town hall event organized by the Berthoud Recorder to discuss the proximity of power lines to the airstrip and the regulation of ultralight aircraft or gliders in the area.
- Despite the accident, the Larimer County sports community expressed their deepest condolences to the family of pilot Phillip Edward Benson and the aviation community following the fatal crash of an ultralight glider on August 13, 2025.
