CNN —
Federal investigators are currently investigating the cause of a tragic Cessna crash on Sunday, resulting in the loss of a renowned aviation safety expert and a former NFL star.
Richard McSpadden, 63, and Russ Francis, 70, tragically lost their lives when the Cessna Cardinal they were piloting crashed near the runway of the Lake Placid Airport. New York State Police reported that the plane struck an earth embankment.
McSpadden, the head of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s Air Safety Institute, dedicated his time and effort to preventing crashes involving general aviation airplanes.
According to a statement from the association, McSpadden was seated in the right seat of the Cessna 177 Cardinal when the plane experienced an emergency shortly after takeoff. Despite attempting to return to the airport, the aircraft failed to reach the runway.
The investigation into the incident is being led by the National Transportation Safety Board. Initial reports from the Federal Aviation Administration state that the plane crashed for unknown reasons before reaching the runway.
Russ Francis, known for his career with the New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers, played 13 seasons in the NFL and was a two-time All-Pro. He notably contributed to the 49ers’ victory in Super Bowl XIX in January 1985.
The organization expressed deep sadness and extended condolences to the family and friends of Russ Francis, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic loss of former New England Patriots tight end Russ Francis,” via social media.
After retiring in 1998, Russ Francis secured a top 15 spot for tight ends in terms of receptions, touchdowns, and receiving yards throughout his career.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft paid tribute to Russ Francis, saying, “Russ was a fan favorite throughout his playing career. He was a dynamic player on the field who had an even bigger personality off it. He knew no boundaries, pushed the limits, and lived his life to the fullest.”
McSpadden, having led 100 flight demonstrations as the former commander of the US Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration team, was highly respected in aviation circles, as evidenced by his biography on the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association website.
Located approximately 115 miles north of Albany in northern New York, Lake Placid Airport serves as the tragic site of the Cessna crash.
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