Cessna 340A plane crashes at Gunsite

Aaron Spuler is a firearms enthusiast and recreational shooter. Follow more or his work at The Weapon Blog

Four people reportedly died in a plane crash at about 12:30 p.m. today at the Gunsite firearms training academy in Paulden.

Sheriff’s spokesman Dwight D’Evelyn said witnesses saw the plane clip some trees and then appear to explode on impact. Some witnesses also said the plane may have struck a radio tower on the Gunsite grounds.

“It is our best information that four persons were killed in the crash,” he said.

Chino Valley Fire crews also responded to the scene.

The plane has been identified as a Cessna 340, six-passenger aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the plane departed from Bullhead City earlier today.

“Initial reports on site indicate the plane was expected to land at the Prescott Airport and those on board were scheduled to arrive at Gunsite later in the day,” D’Evelyn said. “We have not determined why the aircraft was in the area over Gunsite prior to arrival at the Prescott Airport.”

FAA and National Transportation Safety Board officials have been notified, D’Evelyn said.

Identities of those on board have not been confirmed and will be delayed until next of kin have been notified, he said.

Source: http://prescottaz.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1086&ArticleID=123929