Monroe County—This afternoon at 12:58, Indiana State Police and Monroe County emergency agencies responded to a report of a single engine plane crash in a wooded area behind 85 North Oard Road and approximately one-quarter mile north of the Monroe County Airport. The crash resulted in the death of the two passengers onboard.
Preliminary investigation has revealed a person onboard the small single engine plane reported a mechanical issue, possibly involving fuel related mechanisms, to the Monroe County Airport tower personnel. The person requested to land at Monroe County Airport and was given permission to do so. While approaching the airport from the north traveling south, the plane lost altitude and crashed into a small shed and wooded area behind a residence. The plane was immediately engulfed in flames and there were no survivors. The flames were extinguished by members of the Ellettsville and Van Buren Township Fire Departments.
The investigation is underway by ISP Master Trooper Mark Clephane of the Bloomington Post and the Federal Aviation Administration. The investigation could take weeks to complete. At this time and due to the condition of the plane, the aircraft has not been positively identified.
The deceased are both males, but the condition of the bodies has prevented an immediate identification. The Monroe County Coroner’s Office will use dental records and/or DNA to confirm a positive identification.
Questions concerning the ISP investigation should be directed to Sergeant Joe Watts. Questions concerning the FAA investigation should be directed to their office at 317-837-4400 and coroner related questions should be directed to Monroe County Coroner Nicole Meyer at 812-349-3222.
American Red Cross provided food and beverages to officials on scene.
Attached are two pictures from the scene..
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