Authorities reported that two individuals lost their lives in a plane accident close to a Texas airfield, where the aircraft struck an 18-wheeler and several trailers before erupting in flames on Sunday afternoon, as detailed in local media and through startling video footage.
The plane’s descent was marked by a nose-first impact, followed by a high-speed slide along the tarmac. Surveillance footage shared by WFAA reveals the moment the plane collided with the truck and trailers, causing it to pivot vertically as it burst into flames.
Witnesses observed thick smoke billowing from the wreckage, visible from considerable distances. One bystander recounted hearing a loud explosion, followed by a frantic individual rushing in to request that emergency services be notified.
Lauren Anderson, another observer, recounted witnessing a massive 100-foot tower of “dark smoke” that quickly dispersed once responders arrived.
“To be honest, it almost seems as if nothing happened at all. It’s an odd sensation, fully understanding that something catastrophic did occur,” Anderson reflected to The New York Times regarding the aftermath.
This alarming incident transpired in Tarrant County, adjacent to Hicks Airfield, as reported by the Fort Worth Fire Department.
The airport is strategically located between Fort Worth Alliance Airport and Fort Worth Meacham Airport, and also lies to the west of the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.
Currently, the identities of the deceased remain undisclosed, and it has not been determined whether there were any injuries among nearby individuals.
Fire authorities informed CBS News that the fire has since been controlled.
The Federal Aviation Administration is spearheading the inquiry into the incident.
In a separate incident the previous day, a helicopter crashed into a series of palm trees at Huntington Beach, California, while preparations were underway for a combined vehicle and aircraft exhibition.
The helicopter crash resulted in five individuals being hospitalized, including a child.
Eric Nixon, an acclaimed aerial stunt performer, has been confirmed as the pilot of the helicopter. Reports indicate that Nixon suffered “some broken ribs, crushed vertebrae, and multiple bruises,” as communicated by his father-in-law to local news sources.
