DARTMOUTH, Mass. (AP) — A small plane crashed on Interstate 195 early Monday amid inclement weather, resulting in two fatalities and one injury on the ground, authorities reported.
Emergency responders reported seeing smoke rising from the crash site, with debris scattered across the highway. The roadway was closed in both directions near Dartmouth, approximately 50 miles south of Boston, according to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.
Massachusetts State Police confirmed there were no survivors on board the Socata TBM-700, which may have been attempting to land at New Bedford Regional Airport. Officials noted the pilot did not file a flight plan or provide passenger information.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the incident, with officials from New Bedford Regional Airport ready to assist. A spokesperson stated that further details about those on board would be withheld pending family notifications.
One person on the ground was hospitalized, but the extent of injuries remains unclear. New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell expressed condolences on social media to the families affected by the “tragic plane crash” and noted the miraculous avoidance of severe injuries among motorists.
At the time of the crash, a nor'easter was affecting the region, bringing rain and wind gusts between 30 to 40 mph, according to the National Weather Service. The Federal Aviation Administration indicated it would likely assume investigation duties but could not comment further due to a government shutdown.