A devastating aviation tragedy near Butler Memorial Airport in Missouri has left families, friends, and the skydiving community mourning after Dane Cordes was reportedly identified among the 12 people killed in a fatal skydiving plane crash on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
According to reports, Dane Cordes was among the victims aboard a PAC 750XL skydiving aircraft that crashed shortly after takeoff from Butler Memorial Airport. Authorities confirmed that all 12 occupants on board, including 11 skydivers and the pilot, lost their lives in the devastating crash.
Officials said the aircraft, a New Zealand-built PAC 750XL turboprop commonly used for skydiving operations, departed shortly before 11 a.m. as part of a scheduled flight for Skydive Kansas City. Investigators later revealed that shortly after takeoff, the pilot turned the aircraft around for reasons that remain unknown before the plane crashed near Business 49 Highway in Butler, Missouri, approximately 70 miles south of Kansas City.
Dane Cordes is among several victims who have been identified or widely reported by members of the skydiving community, alongside Matthew Swope, Nick Nash, Dustin McKinney, and Jen Sharp, all believed to have been among those who tragically lost their lives in the crash.
Emergency responders from multiple local, state, and federal agencies quickly responded to the crash site, including teams from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Authorities initially searched the surrounding area to determine whether any skydivers may have exited the aircraft before impact, but later confirmed that all occupants were accounted for at the crash site.
The heartbreaking accident has sent shockwaves throughout the skydiving world, leaving loved ones devastated as they begin grieving an unimaginable loss. Friends and fellow skydivers are remembering those aboard as adventurous individuals who shared a passion for life and a love for the skies.
As federal investigators continue working to determine what caused the aircraft to suddenly turn back moments after takeoff, families are left facing painful questions and overwhelming grief.
For now, those who knew Dane Cordes and the other victims continue honoring their memories, remembering lives filled with passion, courage, and moments that will never be forgotten.
