LITITZ, Pa. — A single-engine plane crash in central Pennsylvania left five individuals injured over the weekend, three of whom were subsequently transported to a burn center for specialized treatment, authorities confirmed.
According to hospital officials, two of the injured were airlifted to a burn center, while a third was transported by ambulance. The remaining two individuals were discharged after receiving care at a local hospital.
The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from Lancaster Airport when the plane erupted into flames, ultimately crashing into the parking lot of the Brethren Village retirement community in Lititz, approximately 75 miles west of Philadelphia.
No fatalities were reported as a result of the crash, and there were no injuries to individuals on the ground, as stated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Preliminary reports indicate that the aircraft, a Beechcraft Bonanza registered to a local company, was en route to Springfield, Ohio.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the crash and is collaborating with the FAA. Investigators are focusing on various elements of the incident, including the pilot’s actions, aircraft condition, and operational environment. They will be reviewing air traffic control communications, flight data, witness testimonies, surveillance footage, and maintenance records.
A preliminary report is anticipated within 30 days, while the comprehensive investigation may take 12 to 24 months to conclude.
Witnesses described the alarming moments leading up to the crash. One motorist reported seeing the plane veer left and then nose-dive, resulting in a fireball upon impact. Additionally, audio recordings from air traffic control revealed the pilot raising concerns about an open door and requesting to return for landing just before the crash occurred.
