No Survivors Found After Plane Hits Power Lines and Crashes into Roadway in Central Illinois

Tragedy struck in central Illinois as a small plane crashed into power lines, resulting in the loss of all four occupants on board. The incident occurred on 551-587 County Road in Trilla, Coles County, at approximately 10:15 a.m. local time on Saturday, April 19. The Illinois State Police confirmed the devastating news, revealing that the victims were all from Menomonie, Wis., and were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Coles County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), are currently at the crash site, urging individuals to avoid the area as investigations continue. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is expected to join the scene on Sunday, April 20, to further probe the crash. Reports from CBS News indicated that the plane collided with power lines before plunging into the roadway.

Footage shared online showcased the aftermath of the crash, with remnants of the burnt plane scattered across County Line Road as investigators worked diligently. Witness Kynnedi Goldstein recounted her experience to CBS News Chicago, describing the moment of impact. “I hear this noise. It’s like the whole ‘boom,’ and then our power went out for a second, and then our generator kicked on … So then I go out to our sunroom, and I look, and there’s a huge pile of smoke,” she said.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed his condolences in a released statement, acknowledging the tragic event in Coles County. He also commended the quick response of the first responders and urged the public to follow official guidance as efforts are made to assist those affected by the plane crash. The Coles County Coroner has yet to release the identities of the victims involved in the fatal incident.

This devastating event serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with air travel and the importance of stringent safety measures to prevent such tragedies. The community of Trilla, Coles County, mourns the loss of four lives and comes together to support those impacted by this harrowing incident. As investigations continue, authorities work tirelessly to uncover the circumstances leading to the fatal crash and determine the cause behind this heartbreaking accident.

The resilience and unity shown in the face of such adversity highlight the strength of the community during challenging times. The outpouring of support and solidarity from individuals near and far underscores the human capacity for compassion and empathy in the wake of a tragedy. As the investigation progresses, the memory of those lost in the plane crash will remain in the hearts of many, serving as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment with loved ones.