Two individuals sustained injuries following a small plane crash at Lafayette Municipal Airport in Macon County yesterday, according to local law enforcement. Sheriff Joseph Wilburn confirmed to WVLT that the incident occurred around 3:15 p.m. involving a man and a woman aboard the aircraft. Details surrounding the crash are under active investigation, with inquiries centered on whether it transpired during takeoff or landing phases.
The injured parties were quickly attended by emergency services, with the woman airlifted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center due to her serious injuries, as Sheriff Wilburn confirmed. Meanwhile, the man received transportation to a local hospital. Though their identities have not been released, FOX17 reports that the aircraft owner and pilot is named Roger Richardson, with Chris Nickens identified as the passenger.
Information provided by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and cited by WKRN stated that the aircraft involved was a 2-seat Super Drifter. The FAA, along with The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), has taken the helm in the investigation of the crash. Details regarding the sequence of events that led to the accident remain scant pending further probes.
The aftermath of the crash saw the temporary closure of the Lafayette Municipal Airport as authorities responded to the scene. According to on-site operator Sky Chaser Aviation, Inc., the small plane encountered trouble while attempting to land. The airport has since resumed normal operations, and Macon County EMT also provided timely response to ensure immediate care for the victims. Updates on their current condition have yet to be disseminated.
