10 confirmed dead in Alaska plane crash

All 10 people on the Bering Air caravan that was reported missing Thursday are confirmed dead, Alaska State Troopers said.

“Our hearts are heavy with grief as we process this heartbreaking news. At this time, our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected by this tragedy. We recognize the profound loss this has caused, and we want to extend our sincerest condolences to everyone impacted,” Alaska State Troopers said in a statement Saturday.

Efforts to recover the victims’ bodies were expected to begin Saturday on the sea ice where the plane crashed, 34 miles southeast of Nome, Alaska, according to the Alaska State Troopers.

The wreckage was found on Friday with three people initially found dead inside, the Coast Guard said.

The remaining seven people were also believed to be inside the wreckage but were “inaccessible due to the condition of the plane,” the Coast Guard said Friday.

“Our heartfelt condolences are with those affected by this tragic incident,” the Coast Guard said.

There were nine passengers, all adults, and a pilot on board the commuter plane, authorities said.

The Alaska State Troopers will handle the recovery of the bodies, Coast Guard Lt. Commander Mike Salerno told ABC News. The Alaska National Guard also said Saturday that it would provide personnel and equipment to help with the operation including two HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters, a Nome-based UH-60L Black Hawk, an HC -130J Combat King II and a team of pararescuemen.

The wreckage was found by a search and rescue crew on a USCG MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter and then two rescue swimmers were lowered down to survey the plane.