Small Plane Crash Near Marco Island Florida

A weekend flight through the serene wilderness of Southwest Florida ended in tragedy.  A small plane crash in the remote Ten Thousand Islands has left one person dead and a pilot alive, triggering a major federal investigation.

 

The Cessna A185F aircraft went down under what officials are calling unknown circumstances west of Everglades City.  First responders from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, along with fire and EMS crews, rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a downed plane in the water near the Port of the Islands resort.

 

Upon arrival, they discovered the aircraft had overturned and was partially submerged in the shallow waters.  Two people were confirmed to have been on board the flight, which departed from Marco Island Executive Airport.  While the pilot survived the ordeal, the passenger was fatally injured in the accident.

 

The wreckage was later recovered from the water and transported to Goodland Boat Park on Marco Island.  Now, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken charge of the case to determine what went so horribly wrong.

 

Investigators will meticulously examine the aircraft, review maintenance records, and analyze the pilot's experience as they search for answers.

 

The full story of this heartbreaking crash may not be known for months, as such investigations can be lengthy and complex.  Our thoughts are with the family during these times.