A fatal midair collision occurred between two small aircraft at Fort Morgan Municipal Airport in Colorado on Sunday morning, resulting in one death and three injuries. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) identified the planes involved as a Cessna 172 and an Extra EA-300, each carrying two passengers.
Tragically, one passenger aboard the Extra EA-300 did not survive the crash, as confirmed by the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office. The other passenger from the same aircraft was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, with their current condition yet to be disclosed. The two individuals aboard the Cessna 172 suffered minor injuries and were treated at the crash site.
Following the collision, one of the aircraft burst into flames, although it remains unclear which one. The aftermath of the incident left both planes 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 a local news outlet.
In the wake 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 courageous 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.