BREAKING: Reality TV star Matt Wright is facing serious allegations as covert recordings reveal his explosive rants against investigators probing a fatal helicopter crash. The jury in Darwin Supreme Court has been presented with these shocking recordings, where Wright lashes out at authorities for what he claims is an unfair targeting of him following the tragic incident that claimed the life of his close friend, Chris “Willow” Wilson, in February 2022.
The recordings, played in court today, are crucial to the case against Wright, who has pleaded not guilty to three counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice. The prosecution alleges that Wright was deeply concerned investigators would uncover that the helicopter’s flying-hour meters had been tampered with, extending operational times beyond legal limits. Authorities are not accusing him of causing the crash itself, which left pilot Sebastian Robinson paralyzed.
In one revealing conversation, Wright can be heard saying, “Old f***in’ Sebby’s dropped everyone,” suggesting that Robinson’s actions could jeopardize his air operator’s certificate. This statement follows the jury’s hearing that aviation investigators concluded the helicopter likely ran out of fuel, leading to the crash.
The recordings also capture Wright’s emotional turmoil as he grapples with the loss of his best friend. “I’ve lost my best mate and now you’re trying to pin me for this,” he is heard saying, expressing his frustration with the ongoing investigation. He emphasizes that after the crash, he sought to support Robinson, declaring, “Everything I did was to back Seb and put him in a good light.”
The NT Police have confirmed that Wright’s home was bugged and his phone was tapped for three months, from October to December 2022, as they sought evidence of potential wrongdoing. Detective Sergeant Timothy Gardiner testified about the extent of the surveillance today.
In another recording, Wright describes discovering the helicopter’s fuel tank empty at the crash site, adding, “There’s no way in the world I was not going to go out there.” His insistence on not wanting to implicate Robinson while simultaneously refusing to take the blame adds a dramatic layer to the already complex case.
The prosecution concluded its presentation of evidence today, with Acting Justice Allan Blow scheduling the jury’s return for Tuesday following further legal discussions on Monday.
As this case develops, the emotional toll on Wright and the implications for aviation safety in the region remain critical issues. The jury’s decision could have lasting ramifications for Wright’s career and the ongoing investigation into the tragic crash.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the jury prepares to deliberate next week. The impact of this case resonates not only in the courtroom but in the hearts of those affected by the tragedy.
