One Person Pronounced Dead After Small Plane Crash Near Lafayette Airport

The Lafayette Fire Department is investigating a fatal aircraft crash that occurred near Oakbourne Country Club and the 3700 block of E Simcoe Street at approximately 11:37 a.m. this morning. According to Lafayette City Communications Officer Jamie Boudreaux, the incident involved a small, private aircraft that crashed shortly after takeoff.

The preliminary investigation indicates that the aircraft was in the process of taking off when the crash occurred. Emergency responders, including police and fire personnel, arrived swiftly on the scene. Tragically, the sole occupant of the aircraft was pronounced deceased at the site of the crash.

Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Valerie Ponseti confirmed the crash earlier in the day. First responders have been working to secure the area and begin their investigation. Details regarding the cause of the crash remain unclear at this time.

Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area as the investigation continues, and additional information will be released as it becomes available. The identity of the victim has not been disclosed, pending notification of family members.

The crash site, located near a residential area and close to Lafayette Regional Airport, has some locals concerned but officials are working to ensure the safety of the surrounding community as they gather more information on this tragic incident.

Representatives from the Lafayette Fire Department, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, Acadian Ambulance, Lafayette Airport Commission, and Lafayette Consolidated Government are on the scene. According to LCG, the investigation will be turned over to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and updates will be provided accordingly as more information becomes available.