Twelve killed in skydiving plane crash in Missouri

Sunday 14 June 2026 - 21:19

Twelve people were killed after a plane used for recreational skydiving crashed near an airport in the U.S. state of Missouri, local authorities confirmed on Sunday.

The accident occurred near the city of Butler, where the aircraft had taken off carrying a pilot and 11 amateur skydivers. According to emergency management officials, none of the occupants survived the crash.

Preliminary reports indicate that the small private aircraft departed from Butler Airport before turning back shortly after takeoff. The plane then crashed near the airport and a nearby roadway, prompting an immediate emergency response.

Rescue teams and law enforcement officers secured the area, while traffic on the adjacent road was temporarily halted to facilitate recovery operations and ensure public safety.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Aviation specialists are expected to examine the aircraft’s maintenance records, flight path, weather conditions, and any available communications from the pilot prior to the accident.

The tragedy has shocked the local community and marks one of the deadliest civilian aviation accidents in the region in recent years. Officials are expected to release additional information as the investigation progresses.