A small, single-engine Piper PA-28 aircraft crashed into a house in Akron, Ohio, on Thursday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of both individuals on board and igniting a significant fire.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the incident occurred around 3:45 p.m., with the plane colliding with the residence and setting it ablaze almost immediately. Fortunately, a family of four—including a couple and their two children—was inside at the time but managed to escape without injury.
District Chief Sierjie Lash from the Akron Fire Department confirmed to reporters that there were no injuries reported on the ground and that the identities of the deceased remain undisclosed.
“There were a couple with two children at home, and they all got out safely, which is quite fortunate,” Lash noted.
She added, “We arrived to find heavy smoke billowing from the house and treated it as a house fire.”
Thick black smoke filled the neighborhood as flames ravaged the home, leaving only the tail section of the airplane visible amidst the wreckage.
The exact reasons for the crash are still unknown, and both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are currently investigating. Additionally, Topgolf, located directly across from the crash site, stated they are collaborating with local authorities as first responders examine the area.
A Topgolf spokesperson commented, “The safety of our guests and team members is our primary concern, and the venue has been evacuated. We cannot share additional details at this time due to the ongoing investigation, but our focus is on ensuring the safety and support of those affected.”
American Winds College of Aeronautics, a flight school in the vicinity, confirmed that all their aircraft are accounted for and were not involved in this incident.
“American Winds is very saddened to hear about the plane crash near Akron Fulton Airport this afternoon,” the school expressed on Facebook. “We are keeping the pilot, those on board, and their families in our thoughts.”
A press briefing regarding the crash is set for 3:30 p.m. ET on Friday by the NTSB.
