‘Still don’t believe it’s true’- Tragic Plane Crash in Massachusetts Many Deaths Reporting

A deadly plane crash happened in western Massachusetts that killed three people. The twin-engine Beechcraft Baron crashed in the Leyden Wildlife Management Area outside Greenfield, Massachusetts, on Sunday. The victims were the owner of Fly Lugu Flight School, Frederika Ballard, an instructor, William Hampton, and a student pilot, Chad Davidson.

Massachusetts Plane Crash Victims Identified

• Frederika Ballard – Owner of Fly Lugu Flight School.
• William Hampton – Flight instructor.
• Chad Davidson – Student pilot.
• Dr. Michael Groff – Neurosurgeon and experienced pilot.
• Dr. Joy Saini – Renowned pelvic surgeon.
• Karenna Groff – Former NCAA Woman of the Year and MIT athlete.
• Jared Groff – Son of Dr. Michael Groff and Dr. Joy Saini.
• Alexia Couyutas Duarte – Partner of Jared Groff.
• James Santoro – Partner of Karenna Groff.

Former NCAA Woman of Year Karenna Groff and Her Family Die in Plane Crash

The victims were Karenna Groff, her parents Dr. Michael Groff and Dr. Joy Saini, her brother Jared Groff, Jared’s partner Alexia Couyutas Duarte, and Karenna’s boyfriend James Santoro. The family was traveling to Columbia County Airport when the accident happened.

Details of the Massachusetts Plane Crash

The plane was taking off from Barnes Airport at Westfield and crashed minutes soon after noon. It was reportedly seen in a struggling condition before the crash near a wooded terrain. The site where it fell was located within a clearing of the Greenfield-Leyden town boundary.

Investigation Progress

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are leading the investigation. Preliminary reports confirm that the accident happened, but the cause is yet to be determined. The investigation is examining the pilot’s background, aircraft maintenance, and weather conditions.

Community Impact

The community was heavily impacted by the tragedy, particularly those associated with the Fly Lugu Flight School. The Massachusetts plane crash victims were described as enthusiastic people who loved aviation.

Next Steps

The NTSB will issue a preliminary report within 30 days, with a full probe likely taking two years. Officials are calling on anyone who may have information or surveillance video to help the investigation.

This tragic accident is a reminder of the dangers of aviation and the need for careful investigations to avoid future disasters.