Deadly plane crash in Missouri kills 12, including 11 skydivers and pilot

A tragic plane crash in Butler, Missouri, on Sunday, June 14, 2026, claimed the lives of all 12 individuals on board, including 11 skydivers and their pilot. The single-engine turboprop aircraft, operated by Skydive Kansas City, crashed shortly after taking off from Butler Memorial Airport around 11:30 a.m. local time. The plane reportedly failed to gain altitude, made a sharp left turn, and then plummeted to the ground approximately 300 yards from the runway, where it became engulfed in flames.

Authorities, including Bates County Sheriff Chad Anderson, stated that the incident appears to be an accident. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, and officials with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are actively investigating the cause of the devastating crash.

The loss has deeply impacted the close-knit skydiving community and the local area, with some family members reportedly witnessing the horrific event from the ground. Efforts are underway to officially identify the victims and notify their next of kin.