At least 12 people died after a plane crashed near Butler Memorial Airport in Missouri on Sunday. Authorities confirmed the fatal accident occurred shortly after the aircraft went down. Emergency responders immediately rushed to the crash site to begin rescue and investigation efforts.
Authorities Confirm All Occupants Perished
The Missouri State Highway Patrol said initial reports indicated all 12 occupants died in the crash. Officials shared the update through a statement posted on social media. The accident happened near Butler Memorial Airport in the city of Butler.
According to Bates County Emergency Management, the victims included 11 skydivers and one pilot. However, authorities have not yet released the identities of those killed. Butler lies about 60 miles south of Kansas City, Missouri.
Federal Investigation Underway
Emergency crews remained at the scene as officials secured the crash site. Meanwhile, investigators from multiple agencies launched efforts to determine the cause of the accident. The Missouri State Highway Patrol continues assisting local emergency responders.
Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board joined the investigation. Both agencies will examine the aircraft, flight records, and other available evidence. Officials have not announced what may have caused the deadly crash.
Authorities said the investigation remains active and could take time before conclusions become available. Meanwhile, officials urged the public to avoid the area while emergency operations continue.
