VICTORIA, TX – A small plane crashed onto a busy highway in Victoria, Texas on Wednesday afternoon, striking multiple vehicles and tragically splitting in half. The incident occurred around 3:00 PM at the intersection of Zach Lentz Parkway and Mockingbird Lane.
Video footage captured by a witness, Tony Poyner, shows the devastating aftermath of the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed that only the pilot was on board the aircraft. At this time, information regarding injuries or fatalities is unavailable.
As investigations continue, authorities are working to piece together the flight path of the plane prior to the crash. Anthony Antoine, a newsroom reporter, provided insights into the aircraft’s trajectory based on data from FlightAware. The plane, identified by its tail number, departed from Victoria and was headed towards San Antonio.
Flight data reveals an unusual flight pattern, characterized by fluctuations in speed and altitude. Approximately 4.5 hours into the flight, the aircraft experienced a significant drop in altitude, attempting to return to the Victoria airport before ultimately crashing.
The aircraft involved in the accident is an eight-seat, twin-engine, fixed-wing plane manufactured by Mark Industries in Bolton, Mississippi. This company is a prominent provider of specialized contract aircraft and flight crews for airborne Geographic Information System (GIS) surveys and surveillance projects. This information suggests that the plane may have been conducting aerial mapping or surveillance operations at the time of the crash.
As authorities delve deeper into the investigation, they will examine factors such as weather conditions, mechanical failures, and pilot error to determine the cause of the tragic accident. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will lead the investigation, aiming to uncover critical details and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Victoria community is grappling with the shock and devastation caused by this unforeseen event. Local emergency services, including firefighters, paramedics, and law enforcement, responded swiftly to the scene to provide aid and secure the area. The impact of the crash on the local transportation network is significant, with road closures and traffic disruptions expected to continue for an extended period.
As more information becomes available, updates will be provided regarding the condition of the pilot, the extent of the damage to the vehicles involved, and the ongoing investigation into the cause of the crash. The community remains united in offering support to those affected by this tragic incident and hopes for a swift recovery for all involved.