Family, friends, and members of the Butler, Missouri community are mourning the heartbreaking and tragic loss of Jen Sharp, who was among 12 people killed after a skydiving plane crashed near Butler on Sunday morning in a devastating aviation tragedy.
According to authorities, the deadly crash involved a PAC750 aircraft carrying 11 skydivers and one pilot. The aircraft went down near Business 49 Highway in Bates County, shortly after departing from Butler Memorial Airport at approximately 11 a.m. on Sunday.
Emergency officials said the private aircraft had taken off from Butler Memorial Airport when preliminary information indicated the pilot unexpectedly turned the aircraft around shortly after departure for reasons that remain unknown. Moments later, the plane crashed into a nearby field south of the Kansas City metropolitan area.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed that all 12 people on board were killed in the crash, leaving families and loved ones devastated by the sudden tragedy.
Reports indicate that Jen Sharp was believed to be aboard the aircraft while reportedly conducting a coach evaluation jump. However, authorities have not yet released a complete list of victims, and officials say identities are still being formally confirmed as next of kin notifications continue.
Following the crash, emergency crews spent several hours searching the surrounding area to determine whether any skydivers may have exited the aircraft before impact. Officials later confirmed that all 12 occupants were accounted for at the scene.
Investigators are continuing to examine what caused the pilot to reverse course moments after takeoff and what ultimately led to the deadly crash as the investigation remains ongoing.
The tragedy has left the skydiving community and families of those involved grieving an unimaginable loss as they await answers surrounding the devastating incident.
Rest in peace, Jen Sharp, and all those who lost their lives in this heartbreaking tragedy.
