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Outback Wrangler star Matt Wright arrives at police station to face charges over NT chopper crash

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Reality star and crocodile wrangler Matt Wright has arrived at a Darwin police station to face charges over a helicopter crash that killed a 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 Aiport just after 11.30am (1pm AEDT) before heading to Darwin Police Station.

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 perverting the course of justice, destruction of evidence, fabricating evidence, interfering with witnesses, unlawful entry and making a false statement.

Helicopter pilot Sebastian Robinson was also injured in the crash and airlifted from the accident site with serious injuries.

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.

The helicopter crashed in West Arnhem in February. (Supplied)
Arrest warrant issued for reality star and crocodile wrangler Matt Wright
An arrest warrant has been 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)

Police will allege Wright visited helicopter pilot Robinson twice in hospital and attempted to have him falsify records.

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.

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

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

Outback Wrangler star Chris 'Willow' Wilson died when the helicopter carrying him crashed in a failed crocodile egg-collecting mission in West Arnhem Land in February.
Outback Wrangler star Chris “Willow” Wilson. (Supplied)

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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