Naples, Florida – A small plane crashed on Interstate 75 near Naples, Florida, resulting in two deaths and three survivors. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that five people were on board the Bombardier Challenger 600 when it crashed around 3:15 p.m. ET. The plane had taken off from The Ohio State University Airport and was scheduled to land at Naples Airport before departing for Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport.
The crash resulted in the deaths of two individuals, according to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, while three others survived. Witnesses described the harrowing event, with one witness, Brianna Walker, recounting the plane clipping the top of a pickup truck before skidding and crashing into a concrete wall, bursting into flames. Another witness described the resulting explosion and the chaos that followed.
Prior to the crash, the pilot had reported an emergency to air traffic controllers, indicating that both engines had been lost. The pilot attempted to make an emergency landing, but ultimately, the plane crashed on the southbound lanes near Pine Ridge Road. As a result, a large section of the highway was closed, and investigations by the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are ongoing.
The tragedy on Interstate 75 serves as a reminder of the risks associated with air travel and the impact it can have on those on the ground. The survivors will likely have a long road to recovery, both physically and emotionally, and the families of the deceased will be grappling with the loss of their loved ones. As authorities continue their investigations, the community will come together to support those affected by this devastating event.