Missouri: A small aircraft crashed and was destroyed in the US state of Missouri, killing all 12 people on board, according to international news agencies.
Officials said the plane was carrying a pilot and 11 skydivers at the time of the crash. The incident occurred at around 11:30 a.m. in Bates County, according to local law enforcement.
Authorities including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash after reaching the scene.
In a separate incident in Brazil, two helicopters collided mid-air, resulting in the deaths of six people. Reports also suggested that American singer Oliver Tree was believed to be among those on board one of the helicopters, though official confirmation is still awaited.
More read, Two pilots martyred in PAF training aircraft crash
Earlier, A Pakistan Air Force (PAF) trainer aircraft crashed during a routine training sortie near Mardan, resulting in the martyrdom of two pilots, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
ISPR said the martyred officers were Flight Lieutenant Muhammad Qasim Abdullah (Pakistan Air Force) and Lieutenant Taha Abbasi (Pakistan Navy), who lost their lives while performing operational training duties.
A board of inquiry has been constituted by Air Headquarters to determine the cause of the accident.
Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also expressed profound sorrow over the crash, paying tribute to the two pilots for their sacrifice in the line of duty. He said their martyrdom reflects courage, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to the nation.
“The nation salutes the bravery and commitment of Captain Qasim and Captain Talha,” the minister said, adding that their sacrifice will always be remembered with pride and respect.
