Fatal Plane Crash Claims 12 Lives Near Butler, Missouri
BUTLER, MO — A plane crash near the Butler Memorial Airport claimed the lives of all 12 occupants aboard on Sunday morning, June 14, 2026.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) reported that the crash occurred around 11:30 a.m. while the aircraft was taking off. Troopers, along with the Butler Police Department and Bates County Sheriff's Office, responded to the scene.
According to a spokesperson from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a Pacific Aerospace P750 crashed while air traffic control services were not being provided. Sheriff Chad Anderson described the aircraft as a “local airplane,” not part of a commercial airline.
Clear skies and temperatures in the low 70s prevailed at the time of the crash, with winds from the north at approximately 10 miles per hour.
During a news conference at 2:15 p.m., Sheriff Anderson confirmed the incident is being treated as a “mass casualty” event and stated that efforts were underway to notify family members of the deceased. Some witnesses were identified as relatives of the victims.
The Butler Municipal Airport will remain closed for an undetermined period, and Business 49 Highway is expected to be closed for approximately two days as the investigation continues. Authorities urged residents to avoid the area.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.