Plane Crash Update: IDs Released For 2 Men Killed At NY Airport

Authorities have identified two men who were killed when a small plane crashed at a New York airport moments after taking off.

Two men were killed in a small plane crash at MacArthur Airport in Ronkonkoma Monday evening, July 22.
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Michael Mashburn

07/23/2024 12:50 p.m.

The incident happened on Long Island at MacArthur Airport in Ronkonkoma around 6:15 p.m. Monday, July 22.

Suffolk County Police said a single engine Beechcraft Bonanza A36 took off heading south from the airport and was attempting to return to the same runway when it crashed.

Earlier Report: 2 Dead In Plane Crash At Long Island MacArthur Airport

The pilot and a passenger, both from Virginia, were both pronounced dead at the scene. Nobody else was injured.

On Tuesday, July 23, police identified the deceased pilot as 46-year-old Christopher Kucera, of Fredericksburg, Virginia. His passenger was identified as 43-year-old Zachary Hatcher, of King George, Virginia.

It was not immediately clear what caused the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Suffolk County Police Department at 631-852-6392.

This continues to be a developing story. Check back to Daily Voice for updates.

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