12 Killed in Skydiving Plane Crash Near Butler, Missouri Airport

A single-engine plane carrying skydivers went down about 300 yards from the runway at Butler Memorial Airport in Bates County, Missouri, around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, killing the pilot and 11 passengers, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The flight, operated by Skydive Kansas City, was conducting a skydiving jump and included nine experienced skydivers and two tandem jumpers.

Bates County Sheriff Chad Anderson described the incident as a mass-casualty event that prompted a multi-agency response, including fire, law-enforcement and coroner personnel from across the region. He said there is no evidence of criminal activity or terrorism and that the crash appears to be an accident.

The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration arrived on Monday to begin an investigation. Officials said the inquiry will focus on possible mechanical failure, human error or other factors, and may take months to complete.

Skydive Kansas City confirmed it is cooperating with investigators and will withhold the names of the victims until families are notified. Governor Mike Kehoe activated state emergency resources to assist with victim identification and support for families. U.S. Representative Mark Alford said his office will help connect families with federal assistance and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation.