Three generations of a New Jersey family were killed Monday night when a small plane they were traveling in crashed in upstate New York. The victims have been identified as Dr. Gabriele Jasper, 70, his daughter Gabriella Hillgrube, 33, and his granddaughter Guiliana Hillgrube, 2.
State police reported that Jasper was piloting a 1976 Piper Aerostar 601P twin-engine aircraft from Adirondack Regional Airport. The plane lost contact with ground communication approximately 100 feet after takeoff and subsequently crashed into nearby woods. Search crews located the destroyed aircraft following the fiery impact.
Jasper, of Toms River, was described as an award-winning spine surgeon and anesthesiologist who founded the Jasper Spine Institute. A friend and former co-worker, Chris Alderucci, noted on Facebook that Jasper was a skilled surgeon and also enjoyed racing cars, motorcycles, and boats, in addition to flying planes and helicopters. Alderucci added that Jasper deeply loved his family and friends and was a genuine surgeon who cared for his patients and staff.
Gabriella Hillgrube, of Forked River, worked with her father at the Jasper Spine Institute. Social media posts indicated she frequently shared photos of her daughter, Guiliana. The New York Post identified the victims as three generations of the same family.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash.