Pubdate: Wed, 29 Aug 2001
Source: Log Cabin Democrat (AR)
Copyright: The Log Cabin Democrat
Contact:  http://thecabin.net/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/548
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)

MAN CHARGED WITH MURDER IN PILOTS' DEATHS

HOPLAND, Calif. (AP) -- A man was charged with murder Tuesday in the deaths 
of two pilots whose firefighting planes collided over a blaze that may have 
broken out at an illegal drug lab in the woods.

Frank Brady, 50, of Redwood Valley was being held without bail after 
Mendocino County prosecutor Norm Vroman filed the charges. A second man, 
Richard Mortensen, 43, of San Pablo was arrested on outstanding warrants 
for drug and weapons charges. Vroman said he may also be charged in the deaths.

Evidence of a methamphetamine production lab was discovered near the site 
where the fire began, Vroman said. Investigators spent Tuesday trying to 
link the two men to illegal activity which may have started the fire. The 
two planes collided Monday evening near Hopland, about 100 miles north of 
San Francisco, while dumping fire retardant on the 250-acre wildfire. 
Killed were retired Navy veteran Larry Groff, 55, and Lars Stratte, 45.
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager