Plane Crash in Warren County

6 p.m. update

Press Release from WCSD

Today at approximately 12:19 p.m. CST, Warren County E-911 received a report of a possible aircraft crash. Deputies with the Warren County Sheriff's Office, along with members of Warren County Volunteer Fire Department and other emergency responders, responded to the area and located a downed aircraft in a corn field near the Morrison Industrial Park.

Tragically, both occupants of the aircraft were pronounced deceased at the scene.

The preliminary investigation indicates the aircraft departed from a private airstrip in the Viola community. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft appears to have struck a tree, causing damage. The pilot subsequently attempted to reach the Warren County Memorial Airport; however, the aircraft was unable to do so and ultimately crashed.

While official identification of the victims is being withheld pending notification procedures and coordination with investigative authorities, family members have confirmed that the two men aboard the aircraft were brothers and residents of the Viola community.

This is a heartbreaking loss for their family, friends, and the entire Viola community, as well as all of the local pilots who knew the brothers personally.   The Warren County Sheriff's Office asks everyone to keep the family in their thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and other appropriate agencies have been notified and will continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

We respectfully ask that all non-essential people stay away from the area to allow investigators and emergency personnel to safely perform their duties.

3 p.m. update

A plane crashed behind Carrier in Morrison today killing both occupants.

“I was sitting in the parking lot at work eating lunch when I saw it,” said Blaine Wilcher, who reportedly made the first 911 call. “It was about 12:12. I heard it first and thought that it sounded kind of weird. It sounded like the motor was going on and off. I started looking out my window and then I saw it. The plane was coming at a 70-degree angle. It was almost straight down. It would pull up a little bit and then dive a little bit. Finally, it went beyond the trees. A few seconds later, I heard a big, loud thud. I knew, more than likely, that they had crashed. I wish I could have done something other than observe it.”

According to friend of the family who asked not to be identified, the two occupants were brothers who both loved to fly. Both served in the military. Both had, or were in the process of, purchasing land and building homes in Warren County. Both were married with children.

Due to the sensitive nature of the situation, Warren County Sheriff Jackie Matheny says he will release the names of the brothers once family members are properly notified.

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1 p.m. update - The Warren County Way is aware of the reported plane crash in the Morrison area this afternoon.

Our reporters are currently gathering information and working to confirm details with emergency personnel and official sources. We will provide updates as information becomes available.

Out of respect for the individuals and families involved, and to allow first responders and emergency crews to complete their work, we ask the public to avoid speculation while the situation remains active.

We appreciate the community's patience and will share verified information as soon as possible.