Many of the members of Yorba Linda’s community are aware of the plane crash that occurred on Sunday, February 3rd, 2019, killing 5 people including the pilot of the plane. Concern quickly rippled throughout the community as the authorities worked -and continue to work- to piece together the causes of this tragedy. As of Wednesday, February 6th, the other victims of the plane crash were able to be identified by the authorities.

The owners of the home were Roy Lee Anderson, age 85, and his wife, Dahlia Marlies Leber Anderson, age 68. Their daughter, Stacie Norene Leber, age 48, and her husband, Donald Paul Elliott, age 58, were helping to prepare for the upcoming Super Bowl party planned for that afternoon. Suddenly, the plane crashed into the house, killing all four of them and injuring two other family members. Due to severe burning, it was challenging to identify the bodies. Three of the four victims were so severely burned, authorities used dental records to identify them.

Members of this family were “devastated” by their loss, saying the victims “will be greatly missed.” They requested privacy from the media, but also released a statement mourning the deaths of Roy, Dahlia, Stacie, and Donald:

“Our family bond is tight and each member lost in this tragedy represents more than just one role within our family. We lost parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, spouses, sisters, brothers, aunts and uncles. The home lost was a beacon for so many family and friends where many celebrations were held. We want to thank our extended family and friends who have provided amazing support, kindness and compassion. It takes a village.”

Neighbors also revealed a bit about the older couple who lived in the house, expressing their love for Roy and Dahlia: “they were like family” one neighbor conveyed. Another articulates, “That’s why I’m so hoarse, because I’ve been spending a lot of time crying.” Such a devastating event shocks and affects a large community of people, especially family, friends, and neighbors. Therefore, a candlelight vigil will be held on Thursday, February 7th at 7:30PM at Glenknoll Elementary School to support the families and honor these four people. Flowers also lie by the ruins of their home.

A GoFundMe page was created for the community to help “cover funeral and memorial service costs for those who were lost, medical expenses for those who were injured, and the costs associated with the rebuilding of the home.” In order to donate, a link is provided here.

Sources: OC Register, NBC Los Angeles, ABC7, CNN, Daily Mail