The world was rocked yesterday by the tragic news that Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna died after their helicopter crashed in Calabasas, California. Seven others died in the crash — including the helicopter's pilot, Ara Zobayan.
In case you didn't know, Kylie Jenner sometimes rented Kobe's helicopter.
And in an Instagram story posted today, Kylie shared her personal connection to Ara Zobayan and paid tribute to all the victims of this horrific tragedy.
"Rest in peace...and prayers to these families," Kylie wrote.
"I still can't believe this. That was the helicopter I would fly on from time to time with that pilot, Ara. He was such a nice man."
"Hold your loved ones close ❤️," she concluded.
She also sent a message of love to the Bryant family.
Ara Zobayan was Kobe's personal pilot. According to the Los Angeles Times, Kobe wouldn't let any other pilot fly him.
And in a Facebook post, Ara's friend and fellow pilot Jared Yochim described him as a "truly great man":
He was not your typical egotistical helicopter pilot like most of us honestly are. Ara was a man that always remained cool, calm and collected. As more people that knew Ara open up about him, you’ll only hear words like professional, calculated and loving. He was always good for a laugh.
You can learn more about the other victims of the helicopter crash here.
