Three people died Monday night when a small twin-engine plane crashed into a wooded area in upstate New York shortly after departing from Adirondack Regional Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration stated the aircraft went down under unknown circumstances.
The 1976 Piper Aerostar 601P lost contact with ground communication after reaching an altitude of approximately 100 feet. State police confirmed the plane crashed near Saranac Lake. The aircraft reportedly burst into flames upon impact. The names of the pilot and two passengers have not yet been released.
Local residents reported hearing loud noises around the time of the crash. One resident described the sound as similar to thunder, while another recounted hearing "bangs and loud popping."
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the incident. Portions of the Adirondack Trail were closed on Tuesday as authorities managed the crash site.