12 Killed in Plane Crash Near Butler, Missouri

Twelve people died Sunday, June 14, in a plane crash near Butler, Missouri, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The aircraft, a Pacific Aerospace P750, crashed around 11:35 a.m. local time shortly after departing Butler Memorial airport.

What happened during the flight?

The private plane departed Butler Memorial airport shortly before 11:30 a.m. and turned back before crashing near Business 49 Highway, Fox 4 reported. Sources told the outlet that 11 of the victims were skydivers and the 12th was the pilot.

Videos posted online showed a heavily damaged aircraft in a grassy area with plumes of white smoke rising from the wreckage. The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed the fatalities in a post on X, stating that all 12 occupants perished.

Did You Know? The aircraft involved in the Sunday morning crash was a Pacific Aerospace P750.

Which agencies are responding to the scene?

The Missouri State Highway Patrol, Butler Police Department, and Bates County Sheriff’s Office responded to the crash site, KMBC reported. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are also involved in the response.

The FAA stated that air traffic services were not being provided at the time of the crash. The agency confirmed the event in a statement provided to the Guardian.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the NTSB’s lead role in the investigation is critical for determining the specific mechanical or human factors involved, particularly given the FAA’s confirmation that air traffic services were not active during the departure.

What happens next in the investigation?

The NTSB will lead the investigation into the cause of the crash, according to the FAA. Investigators may examine the flight path and the reason the aircraft turned back toward the airport.

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Further updates could follow as the Butler Police Department and NTSB provide additional comments. The investigation is likely to focus on the aircraft’s performance and the conditions at Butler Memorial airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people were on the aircraft? There were 12 people on board, including 11 skydivers and one pilot.
When did the crash occur? The crash happened around 11:35 a.m. local time on Sunday, June 14.
Who is leading the investigation? The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation.

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