Two killed in small plane crash near Centennial airport

New Delhi,UPDATED: Sep 6, 2025 01:05 IST

Two individuals were killed when a small private plane crashed and erupted in flames near Centennial Airport, a suburban complex south of Denver, on Friday afternoon. Authorities said the plane crashed in the parking lot of an industrial office park and ignited an intense fire mere moments after impact.

The event was initially reported as an explosion at the Douglas County Sheriff's Office. "The crash just south of Centennial Airport," said spokesperson Deborah Takahara.

As reported by the Associated Press, South Metro Fire Rescue emergency crews responded quickly to the scene and located the Beech BE35 plane fully engulfed in flames.

The blaze threatened an adjacent office building and a number of diesel-powered generators, officials said.

"Firefighters were able to hold the fire back from spreading further," said Brian Willie, fire department spokesperson. Despite their efforts, both individuals on board the aircraft were pronounced dead at the scene.

Shortly before the accident, air traffic control recordings captured the aircraft being cleared for takeoff. Moments later, another pilot in the area reported seeing smoke in the distance.

“Tower, there’s smoke off the left side. Looks like he went down,” a pilot reported over the radio. Within seconds, the same voice confirmed: “He appears to have crashed in the parking lot about a mile southeast of the field.”

INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY

Both the Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have initiated investigations to determine the cause of the crash. Investigators will look into maintenance history, pilot background, and possible mechanical failure. Authorities have not released the identities of the victims pending family notification.

Officials urged the public to avoid the area as the investigation continues and debris is cleared.

- Ends

With inputs from Associated Press