The family of five from Georgia who tragically died in a small plane crash in upstate New York over the weekend encountered storm activity during their flight, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revealed on Tuesday. An NTSB spokesperson informed Fox News Digital that the flight tracking data for the single-engine Piper PA-46 aircraft was lost approximately 12 minutes after its departure from Alfred S. Nader Regional Airport in Oneonta on Sunday afternoon.
“Preliminary information indicates that the plane was flying from Oneonta, New York to Charleston, West Virginia when it crashed under unknown circumstances,” the NTSB spokesperson added. “Meteorological data shows storm activity along the flight path.”
On Monday, New York State Police identified the five victims of the crash as Harrison VanEpps, 10, James VanEpps, 12, Ryan VanEpps, 42, Laura VanEpps, 43, and Roger Beggs, 76. The police noted that all the passengers were family members from Georgia and were in Cooperstown, NY, for a baseball tournament. The plane went down in the town of Masonville.
The NTSB stated on Tuesday that the debris path from the wreckage spans about a mile, and “all major portions of the plane” have been found except for the rudder. They are urging witnesses who spot any potential debris from the plane to contact investigators. “Today, the plane will be recovered to an offsite facility for further evaluation,” the NTSB also said, adding that the investigation will delve into flight track data, aircraft maintenance records, and air traffic control recordings, among other areas.
The plane departed from Alfred S. Nader Regional Airport in Oneonta, NY, and was traveling to West Virginia to refuel, with its ultimate destination being Cobb County International Airport in Atlanta, Georgia, according to New York State Police. Cooperstown is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp called the incident “tragic” on Monday and asked the public to join him and his family in praying for the loved ones of the Beggs and VanEpps families. “We offer our deepest condolences to all who knew and loved them,” the governor reportedly added.
The NTSB’s investigation will be comprehensive, examining various aspects such as flight track data, aircraft maintenance records, and air traffic control recordings. The agency is also urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or found debris to come forward with information.
The VanEpps family and Roger Beggs were returning from a baseball tournament in Cooperstown, a trip that was meant to be a joyful family outing. The sudden and tragic end to their journey has left their community in mourning. Friends and neighbors in Georgia have expressed their shock and sorrow, remembering the family as active and beloved members of their community.
The Piper PA-46 aircraft, known for its reliability and performance, was being piloted by Ryan VanEpps, who had a valid pilot’s license and was experienced in flying small aircraft. The exact cause of the crash remains unknown, but the storm activity along the flight path is a significant factor being considered by investigators.
The NTSB’s recovery and investigation process will take time, as they meticulously piece together the events leading up to the crash. The agency’s goal is to determine the cause and prevent similar tragedies in the future. The loss of the VanEpps family and Roger Beggs is a stark reminder of the potential dangers of flying, especially in adverse weather conditions.
As the investigation continues, the community in Georgia and beyond is left to grieve the loss of five lives cut tragically short. The VanEpps family and Roger Beggs will be remembered for their contributions to their community and the joy they brought to those who knew them.
The NTSB’s findings will be crucial in understanding what went wrong and ensuring that measures are put in place to enhance the safety of air travel. In the meantime, the thoughts and prayers of many are with the families and friends of the victims as they navigate this difficult time.
Source: Fox News Digital
