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Just before 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5 in Dutchess County, a World War I-era replica Fokker D.VIII caught fire, causing the plane to crash near the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome during an exhibition in Red Hook.
The sole occupant of the plane, 60-year-old Madison County resident Brian T. Coughlin, of the town of Cazenovia, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Red Hook Police.
A preliminary investigation determined the crash was due to unknown mechanical issues, Red Hook Police said.
Coughlin, a longtime Aerodrome, board member, was a well-known pilot throughout the state.
Dubbed the Flying Razor, the D.VIII scored the last aerial victory of the World War I, according to historians.
The New York State Police, Red Hook, and Milan Fire Departments, Northern Dutchess Paramedics and the Federal Aviation Administration were all on scene to assist.
This continues to be a developing story. Check back to Daily Voice for updates.
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