A four-seater Diamond DA-40 light aircraft was compelled to perform an emergency landing on Interstate 26 near Asheville airport, North Carolina, around 8:15 pm on Thursday, December 14, before erupting into flames in front of astonished drivers.
The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office reported that the two individuals on board, whose identities have not been disclosed publicly, were transported to a local hospital.
According to an airport spokesperson, the plane reportedly experienced issues and requested assistance before making contact with the ground. The reasons for the emergency landing and the subsequent ignition of the plane are currently unknown.
A convoy of fire trucks, police cars, and highway patrol vehicles swiftly responded to the scene, prompting the closure of the westbound lanes of I-26. Authorities anticipated the reopening of the road on Friday morning, local time.
Allen Morgan, a supervisor at Buncombe County Emergency Management Division, stated to Citizen Times, “There does not appear to be any life-threatening injuries.” However, their current condition remains unknown at this time.
“Best to avoid that area for sure… Prayers for everyone affected by this,” commented a second individual.
Several local residents reported experiencing power outages at the time of the tragic crash.