(RightIsRight.co) – Exposing the risks faced by those dedicated to saving the most vulnerable, volunteer animal rescue and pilot Seuk Kim was tragically killed in a plane crash while transporting rescue dogs.
From Springfield, Virginia, Kim lost his life when his 1986 Mooney M20J aircraft crashed in the Catskill Mountains of New York.
He was on a mission to transport three dogs to safety when disaster struck, claiming not only his life but also that of one of the dogs on board.
The crash occurred due to poor visibility and snowy conditions. Kim requested a change in altitude due to turbulence, but tragically, it was not enough to prevent the accident.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are now investigating the crash, raising concerns about the safety regulations surrounding these volunteer flights.
Kim’s dedication to animal rescue was unwavering. For about four years, he had been volunteering his time and piloting skills to save countless animals from euthanasia due to overcrowding in shelters.
His efforts extended beyond animal transport as he also used his plane to deliver supplies to hurricane-affected areas, showcasing his commitment to helping both animals and humans in need.
Maggie Pryor, director of the Animal Shelter of Schoharie County, said in a statement, “Over the years, Seuk helped to save the lives of hundreds of animals who would have otherwise been euthanized due to overcrowding at animal shelters.”
The loss of Kim has left a void in the animal rescue community. His selfless acts saved hundreds of animals from certain deaths, and his ability to organize other pilots for rescue missions was invaluable.
While two dogs survived the crash – Whiskey, a Labrador-mix puppy with two broken legs, and Pluto, a Yorkie terrier mix with minor injuries – their survival comes at a great cost.
The Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley (ASSV) is now tasked with overseeing their medical recovery and finding permanent homes.
“There are very few people like Seuk in this world. He has no ulterior motives. He never needed recognition. He just wanted to help,” fellow volunteer Sydney Galley stated.
Unfazed by huge dogs, cats that other pilots did not want to fly, or animal potty accidents, he responded to virtually any request with a smile and “sure, I can do that,” Galley added.
As the investigation into the crash continues, many are calling for reevaluating animal rescue practices and implementing stricter safety measures.
Seuk Kim, a pilot known for transporting rescued dogs to shelter and care facilities, died alongside a canine in a plane crash in New York state's Catskill Mountains over the weekend, authorities said. https://t.co/6PZQGaHFZh
— NBC10 Philadelphia (@NBCPhiladelphia) November 26, 2024
Copyright 2024, RightIsRight.co
