A midair collision between two small planes attempting to land simultaneously at Fort Morgan Municipal Airport in Colorado resulted in one fatality and three injuries on Sunday morning. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the two aircraft involved were a Cessna 172 and an Extra EA-300, each carrying two passengers.
Tragically, one individual aboard the Extra EA-300 lost their life at the crash site, as confirmed by the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office. The other passenger from the same plane was rushed to a nearby hospital, although their current condition remains unknown. The two occupants of the Cessna 172 sustained minor injuries and received treatment at the scene.
Following the collision, one of the planes erupted into flames, although it has not been specified which one. The aftermath left both aircraft in ruins. One was reduced to ashes and charred remains, while the other was left with only its tail, a wing, and a single tire amid the wreckage. This was captured in aerial footage by local news outlet 9News.
In the immediate aftermath of the crash, bystanders rushed to the scene to offer assistance, with some attempting to extinguish the flames themselves. The sheriff’s office expressed gratitude to these brave individuals, stating, “We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the victim in this tragic event. Additionally, we want to thank the citizens who assisted in trying to extinguish the fire until the fire department and first responders arrived on the scene.”
The incident occurred during a weekend when the airport was hosting an aerobatics competition. However, officials from Metropolitan State University of Denver, whose collegiate aerobatics team was participating in the event, confirmed that the crash was unrelated to the competition. The university expressed its sympathy and support for the families and loved ones affected by the accident.
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are set to commence an investigation into the incident.