Community Mourning Together
In a somber moment for the residents of Kill Devil Hills, the community is grappling with the aftermath of a devastating plane crash that claimed the lives of all five people aboard. The incident occurred on Saturday, September 28, 2024, when a Cirrus SR22 aircraft attempted to land at the First Flight Airport, which is located adjacent to the historic Wright Brothers National Memorial.
Reports indicate that the plane, which took off from Dare County Regional Airport in Manteo, initially approached Runway 21 but failed to land successfully. As the aircraft circled for a second attempt, it tragically crashed into a wooded area just east of the runway. Eyewitnesses described seeing flames as a result of the crash, visible even to those driving by on Colington Road.
The identities of those who lost their lives were released by the Wright Brothers National Memorial shortly after the incident. They included Shashwat Ajit Adhikari (31) from Silver Spring, Maryland; Jason Ray Campbell (43) and Kate McAllister Neely (39), both from Southern Pines; Matthew Arthur Fassnacht (44) from Marietta, Georgia; and a young child, just 6 years old. The community has been left in shock, mourning the loss of these individuals.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the incident, determined to uncover what went wrong. NTSB investigator Ryan Enders addressed the media, stating, “We don’t want to speculate. We are just here to collect the factual information.” He emphasized that while collecting evidence, it’s crucial to understand the reasons behind the crash to enhance safety measures for future flights.
The NTSB is set to focus on three key areas: the pilot’s qualifications, the aircraft’s airworthiness, and the atmospheric conditions at the time of the accident. They will analyze the flight track data, maintenance records, and any communications made with air traffic control. It has been confirmed that there were no distress calls made before the crash.
In the coming days, the NTSB will collect all perishable evidence from the scene, including photographs and video recordings from those in the vicinity. They are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who might have witnessed the crash or heard unusual noises from the aircraft. The public is encouraged to share any relevant information by contacting the NTSB directly.
A preliminary report is expected to be released in about 10 days, while a more comprehensive statement detailing the probable cause of the crash will take approximately 9-12 months to complete. Meanwhile, investigators from the NTSB have been present at the crash site collecting data, and wreckage has already been removed for further examination.
The news of this tragic event has resonated deeply within Kill Devil Hills. With the Wright Brothers National Memorial resuming its normal operating hours just a few days after the tragedy, locals are coming together to support one another. The town is known for its tight-knit community, and during times of sorrow like this, residents are leaning on each other for comfort and solidarity.
As details unfold regarding the investigation, the hope is that lessons learned will help prevent future tragedies. For now, thoughts and prayers are with the families impacted by this catastrophic event, embodying the spirit of compassion that defines the Kill Devil Hills community.
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