BEVERLY, MA — A quiet Thursday morning turned tragic after a small aircraft crashed near Beverly Regional Airport, killing one person and leaving another hospitalized.
The crash occurred just before 9:00 a.m. on Sam Fonzo Drive, a commercial corridor adjacent to the airport. Authorities say the small private plane came down abruptly, though it remains unclear whether it was taking off or attempting to land. Witnesses reported hearing a loud bang, followed by the sight of twisted wreckage on the roadway.
Emergency responders from the Beverly Fire and Police Departments arrived on the scene within minutes. One individual was pronounced dead at the site. A second occupant, whose condition has not been disclosed, was rushed to Beverly Hospital.
As of Thursday afternoon, officials had not released the identities of either individual pending notification of their families. The crash site has been cordoned off, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) along with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have taken over the investigation.
Community in Shock as Questions Remain
The crash has stunned the Beverly community, many of whom live and work just minutes from the airport. Sam Fonzo Drive, normally a hub of morning deliveries and light traffic, was transformed into a scene of heartbreak and debris.
“It’s something you never expect to see—especially so close to home,” said local business owner Gina Morales. “We heard the sirens and then the helicopters. Our hearts sank.”
Nearby businesses were temporarily closed as investigators surveyed the site, carefully working through pieces of the destroyed aircraft scattered across the pavement.
Ongoing Investigation
At this stage, little is known about the flight’s origin, destination, or what may have led to the crash. Investigators will be reviewing maintenance records, pilot logs, weather data, and communication with the control tower to determine what went wrong.
“This is a heartbreaking event for everyone involved,” said a spokesperson for the FAA. “Our priority now is to gather the facts and provide clarity to the families of those affected.”
A Solemn Morning in Beverly
Flags at the airport were lowered to half-staff as the community began to process the loss. A small makeshift memorial has already appeared near the crash site, with flowers and handwritten notes left by passersby.
For many, the crash is a sobering reminder of the risks involved in even routine flights — and the fragility of life.
As the investigation unfolds, local officials are asking for patience and privacy for the families impacted by this tragic event.
More information will be released as it becomes available.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information is urged to contact local authorities.