A tragic incident occurred on Saturday afternoon in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, when a small plane crashed into a residential home, leading to the presumed death of a US Bank executive, Terry Dolan, who served as the company’s vice chair and chief administration officer. The aircraft, registered to Dolan, was en route from Des Moines International Airport in Iowa to Anoka County-Blaine Airport in Minneapolis when the accident happened around 12:20 PM local time, igniting a fire that engulfed the struck house.
The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office has yet to confirm Dolan’s presence on the plane, but US Bank stated, “We believe he was” onboard. The investigation remains ongoing, and Dolan’s family, friends, and those affected by the crash are in the thoughts of the bank’s representatives during this difficult time.
As details unfold, it has been reported that there were no survivors from the aircraft, while one individual inside the home managed to escape unharmed. Fire Chief Shawn Conway described the house as a complete loss and highlighted the extensive damage that occurred upon impact. Eyewitness accounts reveal chaotic scenes, with local residents urged to evacuate as flames consumed the structure.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation. They plan to document the crash site and recover the wreckage. Tim Sorensen, an investigator with the NTSB, noted that information is still being gathered, and a preliminary report will be issued in about two weeks. The investigators will review multiple factors influencing the incident, including pilot experience and aircraft maintenance, in addition to weather conditions at the time of the crash.
Cindy Leitschuh, a resident nearby, reported that her Ring camera inadvertently recorded the incident. Her eight-year-old son mistook the plane’s erratic movements for that of a drone before witnessing the crash and subsequent smoke. In response to the incident, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz conveyed appreciation for the local first responders, stating that his team is in communication with city officials.
Brooklyn Park’s Mayor, Hollies Winston, expressed the community’s commitment to supporting families affected by this event, underscoring the tight-knit nature of the neighbourhood as they rally in response to this disaster. As investigations continue, community members and officials alike reflect on the tragedy, mourning the loss of life and the impact on those involved.