MICANOPY, FL — Yesterday afternoon, shortly after 2 p.m., the Combined Communications Center (CCC) received reports from Micanopy residents of a plane losing altitude, followed by a loud boom. Simultaneously, the Jacksonville and Gainesville Towers reported losing radar contact with an aircraft over Paynes Prairie State Park.
Responding immediately, multiple deputies and Alachua County Fire Rescue (ACFR) units established a Command Post near the park to coordinate search efforts. Despite challenging weather conditions, including rain and limited visibility, deputies and ACFR conducted a thorough grid search. However, adverse weather conditions prevented the deployment of air assets.
At approximately 5:15 p.m., the wreckage of a small, single-engine plane was found in a wooded area of the park. Tragically, one individual aboard the aircraft was found deceased at the scene. The Medical Examiner’s Office is involved in identifying the pilot.
Deputies secured the crash site overnight, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are set to take over the investigation this morning. Local authorities will transition to supporting the lead agencies in their investigative efforts.