Tragic Plane Crash Claims Three Lives in Oregon

Three individuals, including two residents of Independence and a Salem man, lost their lives tragically in a plane crash on Hoffman Road over the weekend. The incident occurred when their aircraft collided with powerlines, resulting in a devastating outcome.

Emergency responders in Polk County received an urgent call reporting the plane crash at approximately 4:55 p.m. on Saturday. The initial investigation conducted by the Independence Police Department revealed that the plane had crashed into powerlines, sparking a small brush fire and causing a power outage in the area. The ill-fated aircraft was en route from McMinnville to the Independence State Airport, battling heavy fog along its journey.

The crash claimed the lives of all three passengers on board, including the pilot. The victims have been identified as 35-year-old pilot Mohammad Hussain Musawi from Independence, and passengers Mohammad Bashir Safdari, also 35, from Independence, and 29-year-old Ali Jan Ferdawsi from Salem.

Media reports indicate that the Afghan Support Network, an organization in Beaverton, confirmed that all three individuals were Afghan refugees who had sought a new life in the United States. They were actively involved in the organization’s activities before their untimely demise.

No other individuals were present on the aircraft, and fortunately, no additional fatalities or injuries have been reported.

It is important to note that the owner of the plane was not on board during the crash. This unfortunate incident has left the community in shock and mourning the loss of these three lives.

Authorities Launch Investigation into the Crash

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have taken charge of the investigation into the tragic plane crash. Independence police detectives will provide assistance as required, working alongside the federal agencies to uncover the cause of the accident and any contributing factors.

Local Community Mourns the Loss

Chief Robert Mason expressed his admiration for the collaborative efforts of all the agencies involved in securing the crash site, conducting a sensitive investigation, and promptly informing the residents of the area. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, acknowledging the immense pain they are going through during this difficult time. The entire police department stands in solidarity with them.

Road Closure for Safety and Repairs

In order to ensure the safety of residents and facilitate repairs, Hoffman Road will remain closed until power crews complete their work to restore electricity to the affected area. It is essential for everyone to comply with the road closure and cooperate with the authorities to expedite the restoration process.