Aircraft Crash Caused by Turtle Leads to Two Fatalities

Farmington, North Carolina - A tragic incident occurred on June 3 at Sugar Valley Airport in Mocksville, resulting in the crash of a light aircraft after the pilot attempted to avoid a turtle on the runway. The accident claimed the lives of two individuals, including the pilot.

According to preliminary findings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the aircraft, a vintage Universal Stinson 108, took off as a private plane from runway 2 at approximately 11:45 AM local time. After completing a circuit, the pilot prepared to land but was alerted by a flight controller about the presence of a turtle on the runway.

In an effort to prevent a collision with the turtle, the pilot raised the right landing gear and attempted to gain altitude again. However, this maneuver led to a loss of control. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft sway dangerously before disappearing from view.

A man mowing grass at the end of the runway observed the aircraft's wings begin to wobble before it ascended once more. Shortly after, he lost sight of the plane as it flew behind a hangar. Moments later, he heard a loud crash followed by smoke rising from the crash site.

The Stinson 108, which was produced until 1950, came down approximately 78 meters from the runway, crashing into a densely wooded area where it subsequently caught fire and became lodged between trees.

According to the NTSB report, the aircraft landed on its left side, with significant damage to both wings. Tragically, both the pilot and one passenger were confirmed dead at the scene, while another passenger sustained serious injuries. The identities of those involved have not yet been disclosed.

The wreckage of the aircraft, along with the engine, has been secured for further investigation into the causes of the crash.

This incident sheds light on the potential hazards that wildlife can pose to aviation safety, even on seemingly routine flights. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident to prevent similar occurrences in the future.