Roger Beggs : “Georgia family tragedy: 5 killed in plane crash”

A tragic incident unfolded in Cooperstown, New York, as five members of a Georgia family lost their lives in a small plane crash. The single-engine Piper PA-46, carrying the family, crashed around 2 p.m. on Sunday shortly after taking off from a regional airport in Oneonta, according to a statement from the Federal Aviation Administration.

The wreckage of the plane and the bodies of the five individuals onboard were discovered on Sunday night in the town of Masonville, as confirmed by the New York State Police in a news release. A search operation involving drones, all-terrain vehicles, and helicopters was conducted to locate the crash site, which is approximately 200 kilometres northwest of New York City. The victims have been identified as Roger Beggs, 76; Laura Van Epps, 42; Ryan Van Epps, 42; James Van Epps, 12; and Harrison Van Epps, 10.

Family’s Return Journey Ends in Tragedy

The family was on their way back to Georgia after attending a baseball tournament in Cooperstown, where the 12-year-old boy’s team had participated. Jim Van Epps, devastated by the loss of his son, daughter-in-law, and grandsons, expressed his grief over the untimely demise of his loved ones. The grandsons, residents of the Atlanta suburb of Milton, were excelling in academics and sports, with 10-year-old Harrison showing promise as a budding lacrosse player. Jim Van Epps praised Ryan and Laura for their unwavering support towards their children’s pursuits.

FAA Launches Investigation into the Crash

Public records indicate that Beggs held a valid pilot’s license. Jim Van Epps disclosed that Laura Van Epps’ father had volunteered to fly the family to upstate New York and had joined them at the tournament. The ill-fated flight was en route to Cobb County International Airport in Atlanta with a scheduled stop for refuelling in West Virginia before the tragic accident occurred. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp extended his condolences to the families of the victims, pledging prayers and support during this difficult time. Both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.

(With information from agency)