This morning Senator Paul Wellstone, Sheila Wellstone, and Marcia Wellstone, along with Will McLaughlin, Tom Lapic, and Mary McEvoy of our campaign staff were traveling on a plane in northern Minnesota. The FAA indicates that there were an additional two individuals on the plane; we understand both were pilots. The Department of Transportation has confirmed that the identification number on the tail of the plane that went down southeast of Eveleth, Minnesota matched the serial number of Senator Wellstone’s plane. The reports are that there were no survivors.

We are shocked and saddened by this horrible news. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of those who were on the plane. We will provide additional information as we have it.