A business jet crashed into a runway at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina, igniting a large fire and killing several people.
The Accident
A Cessna C550 carrying six passengers and crew lost control while attempting to land at the regional airport, about 45 miles north of Charlotte, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The aircraft burst into flames shortly after touchdown, leaving a trail of debris across the runway.
Airport Context
Statesville Regional Airport advertises itself as a hub for corporate aviation, offering facilities that cater to Fortune 500 companies and several NASCAR teams. The crash occurred at a facility that regularly serves high‑profile corporate clients.
Witnesses at Lakewood Golf Club
Golfers on the nearby Lakewood Golf Club were stunned when the jet descended too low over the ninth hole. The hole was later found covered with wreckage, and several players fell to the ground in shock.
A Local Voice
“We were like, ‘Oh my gosh! That’s way too low,’” said Joshua Green of Mooresville. “It was scary.”
Investigation in Progress
The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are conducting investigations to determine the cause of the crash. Early reports indicate that the jet was attempting to land after a return flight.
Weather Conditions
AccuWeather data shows that drizzle and cloud cover were present at the time of the incident, potentially affecting visibility and runway conditions.
Flight Path Details
Flight tracking data from FlightAware.com shows that the jet departed the airport shortly after 10 a.m. and then returned, attempting to land again. The planned itinerary included a flight from Sarasota, Florida, to Treasure Cay International Airport in the Bahamas, a return to Fort Lauderdale, and a final leg to Statesville by evening.
First‑Responder Footage
Video released by WSOC‑TV captured emergency crews rushing onto the runway as flames licked the wreckage. The footage shows the intensity of the blaze and the swift response of local authorities.
Sheriff’s Confirmation
“I can confirm there were fatalities,” Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell said, though he declined to give a specific number.
Editorial Note
The Associated Press corrects the sheriff’s first name to Darren, not Grant, as initially reported.
Key Takeaways
- A Cessna C550 crashed at Statesville Regional Airport, killing multiple people.
- Six individuals were aboard the aircraft.
- The airport serves Fortune 500 companies and NASCAR teams.
The crash underscores the importance of rapid emergency response and highlights the ongoing investigations by the NTSB and FAA to uncover the circumstances that led to this tragedy.
Hi, I’m Cameron R. Hayes, the journalist, editor, and creator behind NewsOfFortWorth.com. I built this platform with a simple purpose — to deliver fast, clear, and trustworthy news that keeps Fort Worth informed and connected.
I’ve spent more than five years working in digital media, reporting on breaking news, local government, public safety, business growth, community events, and the real stories that shape life in Fort Worth. My goal has always been the same: to provide accurate, community-focused reporting that people can rely on every day.
