A small plane carrying skydivers crashes shortly after takeoff near Butler Memorial Airport in Butler, Missouri, killing everyone aboard. Multiple outlets report the crash occurs around 11:30 a.m. local time as the aircraft fails to gain altitude after departing. Authorities cited by BBC, NBC, and other reports say there are 11 skydivers and a pilot on board, with several sources also describing 12 total deaths. The Missouri State Highway Patrol and local emergency responders tell media that all 12 people are presumed dead or killed.
Reports state the plane comes down in a field near the airport and catches fire. Firefighters respond quickly and bring the blaze under control, though witnesses and officials describe the scene as severe. Some outlets note nearby roads are closed as a precaution while emergency crews and investigators work at the site.
Investigators from multiple agencies launch a probe into the cause of the crash, though no specific cause is reported in the accounts provided.
