KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – The 12 people killed in Sunday’s skydiving plane crash in Butler have been publicly identified. Investigators said skydivers were on board with the pilot.
They are:
Kurt John RoyMichael R. Shanahan54 years old Kansas City, MODavid HershbergerSai Karthik Varma DatlaMatthew Swope39 years old Independence, MODustin McKinney44 years old Stilwell, KSJennifer L. Sharp55 years old Grand Junction, COBlake ThackerMarcus Miller30 years old Lawrence, KSNicholas Nash40 years old Harrisonville, MOWilliam FischerDane Cordes26 years old Richmond, MO
The Butler County Coroner’s Office said it identified the victims with the help of family members and the flight’s manifest.
The investigation into the crash is still underway. The coroner’s office said it is working with next of kin to reunite the victims with their loved ones.
The plane crashed around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 14, at the Butler Memorial Airport shortly after taking off.
The NTSB said it does not know if the plane had a cockpit or flight data recorder, and they will not theorize on a cause. The NTSB preliminary report is expected in about 30 days, and the full report won’t be done for at least 18 months.
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