<p>Hunterdon County Prosecutor Anthony P. Kearns, III, Chief of Detectives John J. Kuczynski and State Police Kingwood Station Commander Lt. Roger Malone are announcing that a preliminary investigation is underway into a fatal airplane crash that occurred earlier today in Franklin Township.</p>
<p>According to Prosecutor Kearns, “At approximately 12:29 PM today, a 911 call was received by Hunterdon County Communications reporting an aircraft accident at Sky Manor Airport. State Troopers from State Police Kingwood barracks and members of Quakertown Fire and Rescue responded to the scene. The aircraft crashed approximately one half mile southwest of the runway at Sky Manor Airport.</p>
<p>The aircraft was recovered in a residential neighborhood at the intersection of Sky Manor Road and Oak Summit Road. The pilot and passenger were pronounced dead at the scene. There was no damage to anyresidential property reported. The State Police Crime Scene Unit and detectives from the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office also responded to process the scene.”The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration are conducting the crash investigation. The Hunterdon County and Franklin Township Emergency Management alsoresponded and provided assistance during the recovery efforts.</p>
<p>Prosecutor Kearns added, “Our condolences go out to the families of the victims. The names of the victims will be released pending the notification of the next of kin. I commend the quick response of our first responders and their continued service to our community.”</p>
<p>This is an active investigation and further details will be released when available.</p>
