PORT ALLEN - Two students from the capital area and their mother were killed in a plane crash, school officials said Friday.

Port Allen High School announced the passing of 17-year-old Ian Kirby, a senior at the school, along with his 13-year-old sister Amanda and their mother Sandra. 

According to social media posts from family members, the three were on a sightseeing flight in Boulder, Colorado, when their plane went down this past Sunday. Relatives were notified days later after the three were identified. 

An investigation into what caused the crash is ongoing, according to the Boulder County Sheriff's Office.

A Facebook page for the school band said Ian played trumpet, and his sister was aspiring to join the band herself.

Sandra Kirby was a longtime employee at LSU, working most recently in Biological Sciences. Department head Dr. Evanna Gleason released the following statement Friday.

“Sandra Kirby was part of our Biological Sciences family for the past six years and worked at LSU for nearly 25 years. Sandra was a warm-hearted person and had a welcoming face for students who came to our Graduate Studies office for help. A quick glance at her desk or a short talk with Sandra and you would understand how devoted she was to her children. Our hearts go out to those who like us, mourn the passing of these three special people.”

Port Allen Middle School principal, Jessica Major, says the return to school this fall will be difficult for teachers and students alike, as Amanda was a beloved student.

“Every employee at school knew Amanda, and it wasn’t because she did anything to draw attention to herself. She loved getting to know people here at school," Major said.

Family members have set up an online fundraiser to help pay for funeral expenses.