PARKERSON. Donald E,

Maryland State Police Aviation Command ~ Maryland

September 18, 1973

TFC Parkerson and TFC Rathell were attempting an emergency landing in a Bell Jet Ranger. Tragically, the aircraft crashed ,killing both crew members. The crash occurred in Beltsville near Muirkirk Road and U.S.Route 1 and was reportedly caused by engine failure.

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Trooper First Class Charles Straining Rathell was 27 years old and had served 5 years and 8 months.

Trooper First Class Donald Eugene Parkerson ,Jr. was 25 years old and had served 2 years and 2 months.