The Bates County Coroner’s Office has released the names of those who tragically lost their lives in a plane crash in Missouri on June 14. A total of 12 individuals, including 11 skydivers and the pilot, died when their aircraft came down shortly after taking off from Butler Memorial Airport.
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The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that the incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. local time, sparking an immediate response from emergency services. Many witnesses to the crash were family members of those on board, gathered nearby and witnessing the plane’s descent into a field adjacent to the airport.
Coroner Jerret J. Reno announced the identities of the deceased on June 16. The victims include a diverse group of individuals: Kurt John Roy, 69, of Windber, Pennsylvania; Michael R. Shanahan, 54, from Kansas City, Missouri; and Jennifer L. Sharp, 55, of Grand Junction, Colorado, among others. The crash claimed lives from various backgrounds, highlighting the personal tragedies behind this incident.
Speaking to the press, Reno expressed condolences to the families, stating, “While the investigation is still ongoing, we feel comfortable that we have the identities of those twelve passengers on board.” Investigators are now working to determine the cause of the crash, which preliminary reports suggest may relate to engine failure. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was reportedly climbing to altitude for skydiving, and witnesses noted that it did not get above 100 feet.
Dennis Jacobs, acting airport manager and director of the Bates County Emergency Management Agency, confirmed that nine of the 11 passengers were experienced skydivers. He explained the weather conditions at the time were clear, which makes the sudden crash all the more perplexing. Jacobs relayed poignant accounts from relatives present, including one woman anxiously awaiting her brother’s jump, unaware of the tragic outcome.
The operator of the aircraft, Skydive Kansas City, released a statement expressing their deep sorrow and support for the families affected. Stephen Burrows, CEO of NZAero, which owns Pacific Aerospace, shared his commitment to cooperating with the National Transportation Safety Board’s investigation. The company voiced its sympathy for those who lost loved ones in this tragic incident.
As details about the victims emerge, they reveal rich lives marked by passion and dedication. Michael Shanahan’s mother described him as a devoted father and grandfather who began skydiving after the loss of his sister to breast cancer, suggesting that the sport had provided him with a sense of healing and adventure.
David Hershberger, another of the victims, was well-regarded in Kansas City’s music community, remembered for his contributions as a teacher and performer. Friends and colleagues reflected on his unwavering commitment to sharing his musical talent, which touched many lives.
Dustin McKinney’s friends have launched a GoFundMe to support his family, praising him as “authentic” and selfless, while others shared stories about the passions that brought the victims together, such as William Fischer’s love for skydiving that began during a trip to Colorado.
Jen Sharp, the director of technology for the United States Parachute Association, was also remembered for her influential role within the skydiving community. Albert Berchtold, the executive director of the USPA, noted that her work and enthusiasm would leave an irreplaceable void.
In light of this event, Coroner Reno has urged for patience as investigations unfold, stating, “We ask that you allow time and pray for everyone involved as this investigation will take months to complete and has touched people nationwide.” The profound loss felt by the community and the wider skydiving family is palpable, as tributes continue to pour in for those who were lost.