The crash killed two people aboard the Piper PA-28, officials said.
AKRON, Ohio — A father pulled his children from their Akron home Thursday after a small plane crashed into the house, killing two people aboard and setting off a fire in the neighborhood, authorities said.
The crash was reported around 3:45 p.m. on Canterbury Circle in south Akron. Akron fire officials said four residents were inside the house when the aircraft hit. None of them was reported injured. The FAA said the plane was a Piper PA-28.
The impact sent flames and heavy smoke through the home. Colton Laudato said he first heard a loud bang and felt the house shake while he was in the basement. He said he ran upstairs, saw smoke and fire, and carried his two children outside with the family dog.
Laudato said the crash sounded like a train hitting the house. At first, he thought a car or tree may have struck the home. He later said the plane had hit the garage, away from where he had been working and away from where his children were resting.
Neighbors rushed over after the crash. Laudato said at least three people helped his family get away from the house. Firefighters also evacuated a nearby home while crews battled the flames and secured the scene.
The aircraft had two people aboard, officials said. Both were found dead in the wreckage. Their names were not immediately released. Images from the neighborhood showed debris, flames and a large smoke plume visible above the homes.
The NTSB said it is investigating the crash, with help from the FAA. Investigators are expected to examine the wreckage and gather records before issuing a preliminary report. Officials had not said Friday what caused the plane to go down.
The family’s home was destroyed, and the Red Cross was helping the residents. The next public update is expected from federal investigators as they document the crash site and recover the aircraft.
Author note: Last updated May 15, 2026.