Victims of upstate New York plane crash ID’d as 2022 NCAA woman of the year and family members

A Tragic Plane Crash Claims the Lives of a Promising Family

An unfortunate incident occurred over the weekend as a private plane crashed in upstate New York, carrying a family of physicians and accomplished student-athletes. The group was on their way to the Catskills for a birthday celebration and Passover holiday when the twin-engine Mitsubishi MU-2B went down in a muddy field in Copake, New York, near the Massachusetts border, resulting in the loss of all six individuals on board.

The victims included Karenna Groff, a former MIT soccer player and recipient of the 2022 NCAA woman of the year award, her father Dr. Michael Groff, a neuroscientist, her mother Dr. Joy Saini, a urogynecologist, and Karenna’s boyfriend James Santoro, also a recent MIT graduate. John Santoro, James’ father, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss, describing the family as exceptional individuals who had a bright future ahead.

One of the victims, Karenna Groff, was a standout soccer player at MIT and co-founded openPPE during the COVID-19 pandemic to assist essential workers. Her dedication and achievements both on and off the field were recognized with the prestigious NCAA woman of the year award in 2023. After graduating, Karenna and James moved to Manhattan, where she pursued medical studies at NYU and James worked in finance.

The group boarded Michael Groff’s private plane in White Plains, destined for Columbia County Airport but unfortunately crashed before reaching their destination. The National Transportation Safety Board has initiated an investigation into the crash, with funeral arrangements currently being planned for the victims.

This heartbreaking incident has left a lasting impact on the families and communities of the deceased, with John Santoro reflecting on the cherished memories of his son James and the love he brought into their lives. The world mourns the loss of these remarkable individuals and the potential they had to make a positive impact.