Fatal Plane Crash Claims 12 Lives Near Butler, Missouri
BUTLER, MO — A tragic skydiving plane crash on June 14 resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals near Butler, according to emergency services.
The incident occurred at approximately 2:41 p.m. when a twin-engine aircraft went down shortly after takeoff from the Butler Municipal Airport. Authorities confirmed that all 12 occupants, who were part of a skydiving group, were killed in the crash.
Emergency response units from the BUTLER FIRE DEPARTMENT and the BATES COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE arrived at the scene shortly after the crash. The investigation has been handed over to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft experiencing difficulty in the air before it descended rapidly. Lane closures were implemented on nearby roadways to facilitate emergency response efforts. No further injuries were reported on the ground.
The FAA is expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Further details, including the identities of the victims, will be released following notification of their families.