Two people were killed Thursday afternoon after a small aircraft crashed into a residential area near Akron, Ohio, according to federal and local authorities.
The crash happened around 3:45 p.m. local time in a neighborhood roughly 15 minutes south of downtown Akron. Officials said the aircraft struck a home and triggered a large fire that sent heavy black smoke into the air.
Emergency crews responded quickly to contain the blaze and evacuate nearby residents.
Crash
The Federal Aviation Administration identified the aircraft as a Piper PA-28.
According to the FAA, two people who were on board the plane were found dead inside the aircraft after the crash.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims pending notification of family members.
Fire officials confirmed that the home impacted by the aircraft, along with a neighboring residence, was evacuated following the incident.
No injuries were reported among people on the ground.
Response
The Akron Fire Department said firefighters and emergency personnel remained at the scene Thursday evening as crews worked to manage the fire and secure the area.
Witnesses in the neighborhood reported seeing thick smoke rising from the crash site shortly after the aircraft went down.
Officials have not yet provided information regarding where the plane departed from or its intended destination.
As of Thursday evening, investigators had not determined what caused the aircraft to crash.
Investigation
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the incident.
The NTSB is expected to lead the investigation and examine factors including the aircraft’s condition, flight path, weather conditions, and communications before the crash.
Federal investigators typically review maintenance records, pilot history, and physical evidence collected at the scene during aviation investigations.
Authorities have not indicated whether distress calls or emergency signals were sent before the crash occurred.
Nearby Businesses
Topgolf Akron, located across the street from the crash site, confirmed that its facility was evacuated following the incident.
In a statement provided to media outlets, a spokesperson said the company was cooperating with local authorities as the investigation continued.
“The safety of our guests and team members is our top priority,” the statement said.
The company added that its focus remained on supporting those affected while emergency operations continued nearby.
Flight School Statement
American Winds College of Aeronautics, a local flight school near Akron Fulton Airport, also addressed the incident publicly.
In a Facebook statement, the school confirmed that all of its aircraft were accounted for and remained safely stored in hangars.
The school expressed sympathy for those involved in the crash and their families.
Officials have not confirmed whether the aircraft involved had any connection to the school or local aviation programs.
Timeline
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Time of crash | Around 3:45 p.m. local time |
| Location | Residential area near Akron, Ohio |
| Aircraft | Piper PA-28 |
| Fatalities | Two people on board killed |
| Ground injuries | None reported |
| Homes affected | One home struck, nearby home evacuated |
| Investigation agencies | FAA and NTSB |
Ongoing Review
Small aircraft incidents are investigated carefully due to the range of factors that can contribute to aviation accidents, including mechanical issues, weather conditions, pilot decisions, or operational problems.
Investigators are expected to remain at the crash site as evidence is documented and debris is examined.
Authorities have asked the public to avoid the area while emergency and investigative operations continue.
Additional information is expected to be released after federal investigators complete preliminary findings regarding the crash.
FAQs
Where did the plane crash happen?
The crash happened near Akron, Ohio.
How many people were killed?
Two people on board the plane died.
What type of aircraft crashed?
The aircraft was a Piper PA-28.
Were there injuries on the ground?
No ground injuries were reported.
Who is investigating the crash?
The FAA and NTSB are investigating.
