Tragedy Strikes in Kill Devil Hills: Five Lives Lost in Plane Crash
In a heartbreaking incident on Saturday, September 28, a single-engine airplane crashed near the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, resulting in the loss of all five passengers on board. Among the victims was a minor, leaving a community in shock and mourning.
An Eyewitness Account
At approximately 5 p.m. local time, residents heard a commotion as the aircraft attempted to land at the First Flight Airport. Eyewitnesses reported that the plane made a second approach to land before tragically veering off course and crashing into a wooded area nearby. The impact triggered a post-crash fire, which was swiftly controlled by the Kill Devil Hills Fire Department along with other local firefighting units.
What We Know About the Flight
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is currently investigating the crash, which involved a Cirrus SR22 airplane. According to initial reports, this flight had a recent departure from the DAC County Regional Airport, making it a multi-leg journey for the passengers onboard. The NTSB shared that the aircraft did not successfully land on its first approach to runway 21 and instead began its second approach, during which the incident occurred.
No Survivors
In sad confirmation from a spokesperson for the National Park Service (NPS), it was revealed that there were no survivors from the crash, leaving families and friends devastated. The NPS has indicated that they plan to release the names of the victims in the days to come, heightening the sense of grief enveloping the small community.
Investigation Underway
Following the crash, two NTSB investigators were dispatched to the scene to document the wreckage of the aircraft. This crucial step will help in understanding the cause of the crash. The investigators noted that during the plane’s second approach, it made a left turn and tragically collided with trees adjacent to the left side of the runway.
Community Remembers
The First Flight Airport is currently closed as the investigation unfolds, with plans to reopen on Tuesday, October 1, at 9 a.m. The local community is left reeling from this catastrophic event, grappling with both the loss of life and the suddenness of the tragedy.
Call for Information
The NTSB is encouraging any witnesses or individuals with information related to the crash to come forward. This includes those who may have surveillance video or additional insights that could aid in the investigation. A preliminary report from the NTSB is expected to be released within 30 days, but the community is already united in their condolences and support for those affected.
Looking Ahead
This tragic accident has left a palpable void in Kill Devil Hills, reminding us all of the fragility of life and the unexpected nature of such events. As the investigation progresses, our thoughts remain with the families of the victims and the local community, who are coming together to support one another during this difficult time.
