Tragically, on Tuesday morning, a Minnesota entrepreneur lost his life in a plane crash in Montana while piloting a World War II-era aircraft.
Paul Ehlen, the visionary behind Precision Lens in Bloomington, was operating a vintage P-40 Warhawk from the World War II era when the aircraft encountered a mechanical malfunction shortly after departing from Ravalli County Airport in the far western region of Montana.
This particular aircraft holds significant historical value as it is a vintage model associated with the renowned Flying Tigers Squadron led by Claire Chennault in China.
These planes are now rare, with potentially only one other of its kind in Minnesota, displayed at the Fagen Fighters Museum in Granite Falls. It is worth noting that Ehlen and his company were recently involved in a federal court case in Minnesota.
In a ruling last month, a federal judge mandated them to pay a substantial judgment of $487 million for engaging in illicit practices of providing kickbacks to doctors, thereby violating the False Claims Act.
This afternoon, Precision Lens, the company led by Ehlen, released a statement expressing their sentiments.
The statement acknowledged Ehlen as an inventive and fearless individual, highlighting his entrepreneurial drive and unwavering commitment to assisting others.
It emphasized that his legacy will endure, while emphasizing that above all else, Ehlen was devoted to his family. The company expressed heartfelt thoughts and prayers for Ehlen’s beloved wife and children during this difficult time.
Following the tragic incident, the Ravalli County Sheriff promptly notified the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to initiate an investigation into the crash.
Precision Lens also confirmed that Ehlen was en route to Minnesota when his aircraft encountered a mechanical failure shortly after takeoff.
Paul Ehlen, the owner of Precision Lens in Bloomington, Minnesota, died in WWII plane crash