12-Year-Old First to Call 911 After Fatal Nebraska River Plane Crash: ‘That’s Just My First Instinct’

A 12-year-old girl has been hailed as a hero after being the first to call 911 following a tragic river plane crash that claimed the lives of three individuals. Paisley Fenner recounted the harrowing experience to the ABC affiliate KETV, detailing the moment when a small aircraft crashed into the Platte River south of Fremont at 8:15 p.m. local time on Friday, April 18. The impact was described as a loud ‘boom’ by Paisley, who bravely made the emergency call as soon as the crash occurred. The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office later confirmed the fatalities of Randy Amrein, 48, Jeff Bittinger, 50, and Daniel Williams, 43, all passengers on the ill-fated flight.

Neighbours in the area, like Jeff Schoneck who resides in the same neighbourhood as Paisley, initially mistook the crash for routine sounds along the river. After realising it was an aircraft crash, Paisley’s immediate response was to contact emergency services. Despite never having been in such a situation before, she instinctively knew what needed to be done. In an interview, Paisley emphasised the importance of her quick thinking, stating, “That’s just my first instinct.” She also mentioned the community rallying together to assist in any way possible to aid those involved in the crash, demonstrating a remarkable sense of unity in the face of tragedy.

Don and Donna Lackas, long-time residents of the neighbourhood, highlighted the tight-knit nature of the community, where neighbours always come together in times of need. They shared that assistance is readily available in times of disaster, showcasing the strength of unity among residents. Paisley conveyed the ongoing shock and aftermath of the incident, expressing the overwhelming emotions still prevalent within the community days later. Reflecting on the tragedy, she remarked, “Yesterday we were still all in shock — and we were still trembling, crying, and shaking. And today, it’s still kinda the same way. We’re still trying to fathom what happened.”

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are diligently investigating the causes behind the fatal crash. While the exact reason for the incident remains unknown, reports have surfaced indicating severe hailstorms in the area leading up to the crash. The NTSB is expected to release a preliminary report within 30 days, with a comprehensive analysis detailing the likely cause and contributing factors potentially taking up to two years to complete. This tragic event has not only shaken the local community but also garnered attention and support from various agencies working towards understanding and preventing similar occurrences in the future.

The bravery and swift action taken by Paisley Fenner in the aftermath of the river plane crash serve as a testament to the resilience and unity found within communities during times of crisis. Despite the heart-wrenching outcome of the incident, the support and solidarity exhibited by neighbours and emergency responders showcase the unwavering spirit of humanity in the face of adversity. This tragic event has left a lasting impact on all those involved, underscoring the importance of preparedness, solidarity, and quick thinking in times of unexpected calamities. The ongoing investigation into the crash will shed light on the circumstances leading to the tragedy, with hopes of preventing similar incidents in the future.

In conclusion, this poignant incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the strength found in community bonds during moments of distress. The courage displayed by Paisley Fenner and the collective efforts of the neighbourhood in responding to the crash reflect the resilience and compassion inherent in people during challenging times. As the investigation progresses, the hope is that lessons will be learned, and measures put in place to enhance safety and avert such heartbreaking events from occurring again.