Local Business Owner Identified as Lafayette Plane Crash Victim

In a tragic incident that has left many in our local community deeply heartbroken, Gregory "Greg" Manuel, co-owner of Manuel Builders, has been identified as the victim in Thursday's small plane crash near the Lafayette airport.

Public Information Officer and Investigator Alton Trahan with the Lafayette Fire Department confirmed the news along with company officials who relayed the heartbreaking news to Manuel Builders employees earlier this afternoon.

Manuel Builders, a family-owned business, has been constructing homes in South Louisiana and Texas for over 65 years, earning a reputation for integrity, excellence, and a strong commitment to community values. Greg Manuel, who joined the business alongside his father at the young age of 13, was known for his dedication to these principles. Along with his wife Missy, Greg believed in building a community of like-minded individuals who valued trust and relationships, a philosophy that extended to their customers and the homes they built.

The fatal crash occurred in an open grass area near Oakbourne Country Club in Lafayette. According to reports, Greg Manuel was the sole occupant of the aircraft, and fortunately, no one else was injured and at this time, there is no known damage to nearby homes or other individuals.

An updated press release from the Lafayette Consolidated Government stated that the small aircraft departed at 11:35 a.m., with a 911 call received just two minutes later at 11:37 a.m. Emergency responders, including the Lafayette Fire Department, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, Acadian Ambulance, and representatives from the Lafayette Airport Commission, were promptly on the scene. The investigation has been handed over to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Manuel's sudden and tragic passing is a significant loss for the Lafayette community. Greg Manuel was a successful businessman, a devoted family man, and a respected leader whose values resonated deeply within his company and the broader community.

Manuel Companies released the following statement:

It is with deep sorrow that Manuel Companies announces the tragic passing of its owner, Greg Manuel, in a plane crash today. Greg was a remarkable leader and a cherished member of our community. Greg’s dedication to Manuel Companies went beyond business; he was a pillar of our community, known for his unwavering generosity, commitment to the betterment of those around him, and his genuine care for the people whose lives he touched. His contributions will be felt far and wide, leaving an indelible mark on both the professional and personal lives of many. During this difficult time, Greg’s family requests privacy as they process this profound loss. They appreciate the outpouring of support and understanding from the community and ask for patience as they navigate through the coming days. More details about memorial arrangements and further updates will be shared in due course. We invite everyone to join us in prayer, honoring Greg’s legacy and reflecting on the positive impact he made.

Manuel was 73 years old.

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