Bush Pilot Disposed of Outback Wrangler Star’s Phone After Fatal Helicopter Crash, Court Hears
The trial surrounding the tragic helicopter crash that killed Outback Wrangler star Chris “Willow” Wilson took a startling turn after a bush pilot admitted to deliberately disposing of Wilson’s mobile phone after the incident. The pilot, Michael Burbidge, told a court that he discarded the device while en route back from the crash site, adding that Wilson’s wife “doesn’t need to see what’s on the phone.”
This revelation adds another layer to the complex legal proceedings and public interest in the case, which continues to unfold more than two years after the incident that shocked many across Australia.
Fatal Crash in Remote Northern Territory
The crash occurred in February 2022 in a remote part of Arnhem Land. Wilson had been collecting crocodile eggs as part of his work on the popular reality TV show when the helicopter he was in went down. The pilot, Sebastian Robinson, survived the crash but sustained critical injuries.
Michael Burbidge, another experienced bush pilot, was one of the first to reach the crash site. Upon arrival, he found Wilson deceased and worked to assist the injured pilot before emergency services arrived. While Burbidge played a role in the immediate response, his later actions have raised serious questions.
Discarding the Phone
During the return flight to Darwin, Burbidge admitted to destroying Wilson’s mobile phone. According to court testimony, he stated that the contents of the phone should not be seen by Wilson’s wife, Danielle. He reportedly said, “Dani doesn’t need to see what’s on that,” before making the phone disappear.
The phone’s destruction has become a key focus of the investigation, with authorities suggesting it may have contained important evidence related to the crash or Wilson’s final moments.
Legal Consequences
Michael Burbidge later pleaded guilty to a charge of destroying evidence. He was fined and avoided jail time, though the sentencing has been controversial. The decision to impose only a financial penalty has been criticised by some legal experts and observers, prompting an appeal to seek a harsher sentence.
The prosecution argues that disposing of such a crucial piece of evidence compromises the integrity of the entire investigation and sends the wrong message about accountability.
Broader Legal Implications
The case is not isolated. The crash and its aftermath have resulted in a web of legal entanglements. Matt Wright, star of Outback Wrangler and a close associate of Wilson, is also facing charges relating to the incident. He has been accused of attempting to pervert the course of justice, including allegations of interfering with the investigation and the handling of key evidence.
Wright has denied all charges and maintains his innocence, but the trial is expected to draw considerable attention as it unfolds.
Personal and Public Fallout
Chris Wilson’s death deeply affected his family, fans, and the Northern Territory community. The ongoing legal drama has continued to reopen wounds, especially for his widow and children. With allegations of a cover-up, destroyed evidence, and conflicting accounts of what occurred, public interest in the case remains high.
Questions continue to linger about what was on the phone, why it was discarded, and whether more could have been done to preserve evidence and support a transparent investigation.
What Happens Next
With appeals underway and further trials pending, the case surrounding the fatal helicopter crash is far from over. Authorities are working to piece together the full picture, and legal teams on both sides are preparing for what could be lengthy and complex proceedings.
The destruction of Wilson’s phone has become symbolic of the broader questions about trust, integrity, and accountability in the case. As the legal process continues, the focus will remain on delivering justice for Chris Wilson and uncovering the full truth behind the events of that tragic day.
