A tragic midair collision near a Colorado airport on Sunday resulted in the death of one person, according to local authorities. The incident occurred just before noon in the skies near Longmont, Colorado, when two small aircraft collided and subsequently caught fire, crashing into separate locations near the Vance Brand Municipal Airport.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene shortly after multiple 911 calls reported the collision and visible smoke plumes. According to the Longmont Fire Department, one of the planes crashed into an open field and was engulfed in flames, while the other came down in a nearby residential area, narrowly avoiding homes.
Officials confirmed that one pilot was killed in the crash. The victim’s identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin. It is unclear how many people were on board the second aircraft, but authorities have not reported any additional fatalities or serious injuries at this time.
Both aircraft were privately owned and reportedly operating under visual flight rules at the time of the crash. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud bang followed by black smoke billowing into the sky. “It looked like one plane just clipped the other,” said local resident Mark Jenkins, who saw the aftermath from his backyard. “Then they both went down.”
Injured Hiker Rescued After 25-Foot Waterfall Fall
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a joint investigation into the incident. Investigators were seen on-site collecting debris and documenting the crash scene late into the evening. Preliminary findings suggest the collision occurred during approach or departure maneuvers, but officials caution that it may take weeks to determine the exact cause.
Weather conditions at the time of the crash were clear, with good visibility and light winds. Investigators are expected to review flight paths, air traffic control communications, and possible mechanical issues as part of their ongoing inquiry.
“This is a devastating event for our community and for the families affected,” said a spokesperson for the Longmont Police Department. “We are doing everything possible to support investigators and ensure a thorough and transparent review.”
The Vance Brand Municipal Airport remains operational, though some flights have been temporarily delayed or rerouted.