A tragic incident in Butler, Missouri has resulted in the loss of 11 skydivers and a pilot in a plane crash. The fatal accident occurred on Sunday morning when a private aircraft departing from Butler Memorial Airport abruptly changed course and crashed near Business 49 Highway, as reported by FOX4.
Authorities from Bates County Emergency Management disclosed that all 12 individuals aboard the plane perished, with 11 being skydivers and the remaining victim being the pilot. Emergency response teams, along with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the National Transportation Safety Board, are currently at the crash site conducting an investigation to determine the circumstances leading to the tragedy.
Reports indicate that the investigation is expected to span several days as efforts are made to ascertain the cause of the crash and clear the wreckage. Business 49 Highway lanes in the vicinity of the airport have been closed by the Bates County Sheriff’s Office, and drivers are advised to seek alternate routes until further notice.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol issued a statement on X confirming the fatal incident and the loss of all 12 occupants in the crash. Updates on the situation will be provided as more information becomes available.