12 Dead in Skydiving Plane Crash in Bates County, Missouri
BATES COUNTY, MO—A plane crash on Sunday, June 14, 2026, has resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals near Butler Memorial Airport.
Authorities confirmed the crash involved a Pacific Aerospace 750XL aircraft, which was reportedly equipped for skydiving. Local officials stated that most passengers were experienced skydivers, although two novice jumpers were scheduled to jump tandem.
Emergency responders from Bates County, alongside the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), are on the scene conducting an investigation. Bates County Sheriff Chad Anderson indicated that the investigation will continue for several days.
Witnesses reported seeing smoke and wreckage at the crash site, situated in an open farm field. Dennis Jacobs, acting Manager of the Butler Airport Commission, described the scene as heart-wrenching, emphasizing the tragic loss for the victims' families.
Reports indicate that families of the deceased are in the process of being notified. Local community members expressed shock, with Northern Bates County Commissioner John Gray reflecting on the frequent nature of skydiving in the area.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the crash. The FAA is expected to review past incidents involving the aircraft operator. The crash marks a significant tragedy for the Butler community, with local nonprofits offering support to those affected.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.