COLES COUNTY, IL – A tragic plane crash claimed the lives of four individuals Saturday morning in central Illinois. The single-engine aircraft went down around 10:15 a.m. near the small town of Trilla, roughly an hour’s drive south of Champaign.
The Cessna C-1ATG struck power lines before crashing into a field, according to local authorities. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) arrived on the scene by Saturday evening to begin their investigation, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has dispatched an investigator to assist in determining the cause of the accident.
Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion and seeing a plume of dark smoke billowing into the sky. One resident, Kennedy Goldstein, described the aftermath as devastating, with debris scattered across the field, making it difficult to recognize the aircraft.
The Coles County Coroner’s Office is working to identify the victims and notify their families. The crash site has been cordoned off as investigators collect evidence, including air traffic control recordings and any available video footage from witnesses.
Residents in the area expressed their shock and sadness over the incident. Goldstein, who lives nearby, said witnessing the crash was a heartbreaking experience that left the community in mourning.
The investigation will focus on several potential factors that could have contributed to the crash, including mechanical failure, pilot error, and weather conditions at the time. The NTSB will analyze all available data to provide answers to the grieving families and community.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the inherent risks of aviation and the importance of rigorous safety standards and procedures. As the investigation unfolds, authorities hope to provide clarity and closure to those affected by this unfortunate accident.