Latest Update: Las Cruces Air Show Crash Claims One Life
One person was killed on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 20, when an airplane performing at the Las Cruces Air and Space Expo crashed.
The crash occurred around 2:30 p.m., leading to the cancellation of the remainder of the air show. New Mexico State Police, who are investigating the incident, confirmed that one person was killed, with local newspapers reporting that the victim was the plane’s pilot.
Andy Hume, director of the Las Cruces International Airport, released a brief statement on the City of Las Cruces Facebook page, describing the crash as a “single aircraft incident” during the air show. He noted that no further details would be provided at this time due to the early stages of the investigation but confirmed that the performer’s family had been contacted and asked to come to Las Cruces. However, Hume did not confirm any additional details regarding injuries.
The City of Las Cruces also issued a short news release stating that the plane “went down” around 2:30 p.m. during the air show, with first responders and airport rescue teams immediately attending to the scene. The cause of the crash and the pilot’s status have not yet been released. The event, which was originally scheduled to run until 4 p.m., was canceled following the incident.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced that they are investigating the crash, identifying the aircraft as an Extra Flugzeugbau GMBH EA 300/L. Preliminary reports indicate that the plane crashed approximately half a mile west of the Las Cruces airport while performing in the show. The aircraft, which can seat two people, will be recovered and taken to a secure facility for further examination.
An NTSB investigator is en route to Las Cruces and is expected to begin documenting the scene and inspecting the aircraft on Monday. The NTSB has asked witnesses or anyone with surveillance footage or relevant information to contact them at witness@ntsb.gov.
The NTSB emphasized that they do not release the identities of victims or the extent of injuries, as that is the responsibility of local authorities. A preliminary report on the crash is expected within 30 days.
This is an ongoing investigation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
