Seuk Kim, a father of three from Virginia, was flying from Maryland to Albany in the US when his aircraft went down in a wooded area near Windham, New York, approximately 35 miles from his destination.
Authorities reported that poor weather conditions and reduced visibility were present at the time of the crash.
Lucky survivors
Two of the three dogs survived the accident. One, a Labrador-mix puppy named Whiskey, suffered two broken legs, while an 18-month-old Yorkshire terrier mix named Pluto sustained minor injuries.
Both dogs were transported to Hyer Ground Rescue and PAW (Partners for Animal Welfare) for medical attention. Unfortunately, Kim and the third dog did not survive.
Kim's family and friends remembered him for his passion for aviation and animal rescue. His daughter, Leah Kim, described her father as someone who died doing what he loved: saving animals. "From a young age, Seuk dreamed of flying, and he turned that dream into a reality by becoming a pilot," she shared in a tribute.
Heartbreaking loss
Known for his kindness and determination, Kim often shared stories of his rescue flights on social media. In one post, he humorously recounted an incident involving a dog escaping from its crate mid-flight, showcasing his commitment to and love for the animals he helped.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash, but Kim's legacy as an advocate for animal welfare lives on through the lives he touched both human and canine.
