Outback wrangler star matt wright arrest warrant nt police fatal helicopter crash 20221129 p5ymrn.html – Breaking News & Latest Updates 2026
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Outback Wrangler star Matt Wright charged over NT chopper crash

Savannah Meacham

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Crocodile wrangler Matt Wright has been charged by Northern Territory police over a helicopter crash that killed his fellow cast member and "close mate".

The Outback Wrangler was flanked by supporters, some of whom jostled with waiting reporters and camera crews, as he arrived at Darwin Airport just after 11.30am (1pm AEDT) before heading to Darwin Police Station.

Northern Territory Police Service said in a statement tonight that a 43-year-old man had been charged in relation to the helicopter crash that killed co-star Chris "Willow" Wilson who was dangling from a sling when it crashed on a crocodile egg-collecting mission in West Arnhem Land in February.

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Outback Wrangler star Matt Wright, Darwin Airport, friends jostle with media

Supporters of Outback Wrangler star Matt Wright jostled with media as he arrived at Darwin Airport.  9News

The charges include attempt to pervert the course of justice, destroy evidence, fabricate evidence, unlawful entry of a building and a dwelling, make a false declaration, and threats/reprisals to interfere with witnesses.

Police said he was bailed to appear in Darwin Local Court at 9.30am tomorrow.

His bail conditions mean he has to reside at a particular address and isn't allowed to contact certain people.

Northern Territory Police issued a warrant for Wright's arrest on Monday as a result of the ongoing investigation into the chopper crash. He flew with his family from Sydney today.

A spokesperson for Wright said the reality star "strenuously denies any wrongdoing".

"What happened was a tragic accident that took the life of a close mate," the spokesperson said.

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"His immediate concern following the accident was the condition of the two team members on board at the time.

The helicopter crashed in West Arnhem in February. Supplied

An arrest warrant was issued for reality star and crocodile wrangler Matt Wright.

An arrest warrant was issued for reality star and crocodile wrangler Matt Wright. Supplied

Chris 'Willow' Wilson was collecting crocodile eggs when the chopper crashed.

Chris "Willow" Wilson was collecting crocodile eggs when the chopper crashed. Supplied

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"The next priority was ensuring the other helicopters and team members at the site weren't at risk and that the location was safe."

The spokesperson added that Wright won't be making any further statements and will "vigorously" defend the charges.

Decorated police officer Neil Mellon and helicopter pilot Michael Burbidge have also been charged in relation to the helicopter crash.

The men are charged with a number of offences, including perverting the course of justice.

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Burbidge faced court last month and a judge ruled he is prohibited from contacting a number of people, including Wright.

A preliminary Air Transport Safety Bureau report has not identified what exactly caused the crash but the agency has shared information with other partners, which gave prosecutors a clearer picture of what occurred.

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