Twelve people have been killed after a plane believed to be carrying skydivers crashed near a rural airport in Missouri. The incident occurred close to the Butler Memorial Airport on Sunday.
Crash Details
Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying low before it suddenly plunged into the ground near the Business 49 Highway. The Bates County Emergency Management confirmed that just before 11:30 a.m., a private plane that had departed from Butler Memorial Airport turned around for an unknown reason and crashed.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol stated: 'At this time, reports indicate all occupants (12 total) have perished.' Among the victims are believed to be around 11 skydivers and the pilot.
Location and Response
Butler is located about 60 miles south of Kansas City, Missouri. Emergency services responded promptly to the scene. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
