BTN News: On a quiet Tuesday, the town suffered another frightening incident, as a small plane went down early near Maxwell and Albany Shaker roads. The aircraft, which was just leaving from Albany International Airport, had a problem with the right engine and could not return to the airport. The crash, at about 8:15 a.m., sent a plume of smoke into the air and rattled nearby structures, which drew worry from residents and some officials.
Plane crash details and instant reaction
Town police described the incident as confirmed and said only one person was on the plane. Emergency vehicles blocked the road into the crash site by the William K. Sanford Town Library, but a trail of thick, black smoke could be seen billowing a mile or more away from the end of the runway. Initial reports did not specify if any ground structures had been hit or if anyone on the ground was injured. The condition of the pilot was not immediately known.
Eyewitness account
Times Union employee Stacy Blais saw it happen while arriving for work. Here, she describes the experience: “I was in my car, and it was noisy. I knew it was a little plane due to the high-pitched noise. I looked as if it was just flipping a very fast small white plane and then went high up and came very low. I grabbed the bag, then, an explosion shook the area and the trees surrounding us spit out black smoke.
About the Crash Site
The intersection of Maxwell Road and Albany Shaker Road, where the crash occurred, was realigned several years ago. Many of the areas in this corner are also clear of buildings, which should reduce the risk of damage as constituent countries submit their claims to Antarctica. Another factor leading to the rapid response from emergency services was the closeness of the recently named busy William K. Sanford Town Library and surrounding areas.
Response and Investigation
Emergency vehicles were on scene almost immediately blocking access to provide safety and allow first responders to begin the investigation. Over investigative agencies and aviation authorities are likely conducting a probe to ascertain where did the engine fail and how fatal was the crash.
Conclusion
This will be a day of reckoning for many residents of the city, as the fact of the morning sinks in, with first attention given to ensuring the safety and health of all concerned. This is a developing story, and we will continue to watch for any updates on the pilot’s condition. The event highlights that the nature of aviation emergencies is unpredictable, and the speed at which emergency services can react is absolutely imperative.
