Fatal Plane Crash in Butler, MO Claims 12 Lives
Butler, MO — A plane crash near Butler Memorial Airport on Sunday morning resulted in the deaths of 12 occupants, including the pilot.
Authorities reported the incident occurred at about 11:30 a.m. CST. The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP), along with the Butler Police Department and Bates County Sheriff's Office, responded to the scene. Troopers confirmed that all 12 individuals aboard the aircraft perished.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a Pacific Aerospace P750 crashed during takeoff. Air traffic control services were not operational at the time of the accident. Bates County Sheriff Chad Anderson described the plane as a “local airplane,” distinct from commercial airlines.
Clear weather conditions prevailed at the time, with temperatures in the low 70s and winds generally from the north at approximately 10 miles per hour. A news conference was held at 2:15 p.m., where Sheriff Anderson characterized the incident as a “mass casualty” event and stated that efforts were underway to notify family members. Some witnesses were reported to be relatives of the victims.
The airport will be closed indefinitely as authorities conduct their investigation. Business 49 Highway is expected to remain closed for approximately two days. The Bates County Sheriff's Office has advised residents to avoid the area.
This incident remains under investigation. Further details will be released as they become available.