Twelve people are presumed dead following a plane crash near Butler Memorial Airport in Missouri on Sunday morning. The aircraft, which was carrying skydivers associated with Skydive Kansas City, went down near Business Interstate 49 shortly after takeoff, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Circumstances of the crash
The aircraft experienced difficulty gaining altitude immediately after departure, according to Butler Memorial Airport acting manager Dennis Jacobs. Jacobs reported that the plane performed a sharp left turn and may have been attempting an emergency landing on the highway before it crashed in a field. Video footage from the site shows smoke rising from the wreckage.
Official response and investigation
Butler County Sheriff Chad Anderson stated during a Sunday afternoon briefing that the incident appears to be an accident. Law enforcement agencies, including the Butler Police Department, the Bates County Sheriff’s Office, and state troopers, are currently on the scene. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has confirmed it is gathering information and is likely to deploy an investigative team to the site. The airport will remain closed for an undisclosed period, according to Sheriff Anderson.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people were on the plane?
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 12 people were on board the aircraft, and all are presumed dead.
What was the purpose of the flight?
The plane was carrying skydivers with Skydive Kansas City at the time of the crash.
Is the airport currently operational?
No, Butler Memorial Airport is closed for an undisclosed period of time, according to Butler County Sheriff Chad Anderson.
How might the upcoming NTSB investigation clarify the sequence of events leading to the aircraft’s final maneuvers?
