Kobe Bryant helicopter crash: All victims identified [Photos]
Sports
By
Robert Abong'o
| Jan 27, 2020
Retired basketball superstar Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna were among the nine people that died following a tragic helicopter crash in Calabasas, California on Sunday morning.
The group was headed to Thousand Oaks, California for a basketball game where Gianna was expected to play, with her dad Kobe expected to coach.
Los Angeles County sheriff Alex Villanueva confirmed everyone on board died during a news conference.
According to Daryl Osby, the Los Angeles County Fire Department chief, the helicopter crashed 30 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles, causing a bush fire.
All the victims have now been identified:
READ MORE
Harness nuclear science to quench thirst of water-starved populations
Why AFC must sing a new song as they seek to restore lost glory
About 420 families face eviction from disputed 63-acre prime land
Why nostalgia is a dangerous thing at AFC Leopards
Why Ingwe want to make 60 anniversary memorable
Judge extends orders on Sh4.6 billion land as woman distances herself from invasion
AFC Leopards 60: President Ruto urges Ingwe to adopt corporate model
MPs call for probe on KRA's HIV tests and skewed hiring
They include Kobe Bryant, Gianna Bryant, John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Christina Mauser, Sarah Chester, Payton Chester and Ara Zobayan, the pilot.
Orange Coast College baseball coach John Altobelli, his wife Keri and Daughter Alyssa were among those who lost their lives. Altobelli is an ex-assistant baseball coach at the University of Houston.
Kobe’s daughter Gianna and Alyssa were teammates at the Mamba Academy.
Also killed was Christina Mauser, an assistant basketball coach at Harbor Day School in Corona del Mar, California.
"My kids and I are devastated. We lost our beautiful wife and mom today in a helicopter crash," her husband posted on Facebook.
A news release from Orange Coach College Pirate Ahletics paid tribute to Altobelli, whom they described as a mentor.
"It's hard to put into words what this loss means to the college and the athletics department. John was a tremendous coach and an even better friend. Beyond that, he was an amazing mentor to all of the students and athletes that he taught and coached. He treated them all like family and his impact will live on forever," read the release.
Payton Chester, Gianna’s teammate and her mother Sarah Chester were also identified as crash victims.
Also killed was 50-year-old pilot Ara Zobayan.