On Sunday, June 8, a plane crash in Tullahoma, Tennessee, resulted in several injuries. Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene near the Tullahoma Regional Airport and Old Shelbyville Highway. According to the Coffee County Sheriff’s Department, the crash occurred in the afternoon, and multiple individuals sustained injuries.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) initially reported that there were between 16 to 20 people on board the aircraft. However, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) later clarified that 20 individuals were on board the de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter. The plane had just taken off from the Tullahoma Regional Airport shortly before the crash occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m.

The City of Tullahoma confirmed that the plane had 20 passengers, including the crew members, at the time of departure. Shortly after takeoff, the plane reportedly encountered a mechanical issue, causing it to crash. The aircraft struck both trees and terrain, but thankfully, no individuals on the ground were injured.

Details of the Incident and Injuries

According to a Facebook update posted at 4:15 p.m., the City of Tullahoma confirmed that four individuals were transported to local hospitals with more serious injuries. Three of them were airlifted via medical helicopters, while one was transported by ambulance. First responders on the scene also treated other individuals with minor injuries, including bumps and bruises. By 4:41 p.m., THP updated its report, confirming a total of six injuries.

Later, during a press conference held by Tullahoma City Administrator Jason Quick at 5:45 p.m., further details about the victims’ injuries were provided. “After emergency services arrived, three individuals were LifeFlighted to Nashville hospitals for further care. Four others were taken to Vanderbilt University Harton Hospital in Tullahoma for treatment of less severe injuries,” Quick stated. “The remaining passengers were assessed and treated for various minor injuries, including bumps and bruises.”

Vanderbilt University Medical Center later confirmed that four victims were being treated for their injuries. Three of the patients were listed in stable condition, and one remained in critical condition. The total number of injured victims has not changed since the incident occurred.

Authorities also confirmed that the crash did not result in any fatalities, and there were no injuries to individuals on the ground. Additionally, there was no reported damage to any ground facilities or airport infrastructure.

Skydiving Plane Involved, But Passengers’ Status Unclear

The plane involved in the crash was a skydiving aircraft, though it is still unclear whether any of the individuals aboard were skydivers at the time of the incident. Skydive Tennessee, which operates in the area and facilitates skydiving experiences, issued a statement acknowledging the crash and praised the pilot for their quick actions, which likely prevented a far more serious outcome.

“We are incredibly grateful for the quick actions of our pilot, whose response likely prevented a far more serious outcome,” said Hans Paulsen, the owner of Skydive Tennessee. “While the incident has understandably shaken us all, we are relieved that no one was seriously injured. We are also deeply appreciative of the first responders who arrived so quickly and acted with professionalism and care.”

Paulsen’s statement reflects the urgency of the situation and the team’s collective relief that no one sustained life-threatening injuries. Skydive Tennessee also emphasized its focus on the recovery of those involved and its full cooperation with the investigation into the crash.

Investigation Underway by FAA and NTSB

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) arrived at the crash site shortly after the incident occurred and began gathering information from witnesses and individuals who were on board the aircraft. The FAA will continue to work closely with local officials to investigate the cause of the crash. Additionally, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has assumed responsibility for the investigation.

The NTSB has outlined its approach, which will focus on three main areas: the pilot, the aircraft, and the operating environment. As part of the investigation, investigators will examine the aircraft’s maintenance records and evaluate the pilot’s credentials, ratings, and recent flight experience. They are also in the process of interviewing witnesses and gathering further evidence to determine the exact cause of the incident. The wreckage of the aircraft is expected to be recovered in the next few days and transported to a facility in Springfield for detailed examination.

The NTSB’s investigation could take several months, as it involves thorough analysis and potential interviews with experts on aircraft safety and aviation protocols.

Community Response and Local Support

In the aftermath of the crash, local officials, first responders, and other community members collaborated to ensure that all those involved received the necessary medical care and support. Tullahoma City Administrator Jason Quick praised the swift and professional actions of all responders, noting the importance of preparedness and teamwork.

“We practice for these types of events regularly with our local officials, county officials, and state officials,” Quick said. “While we hope we never have to put these practices into action, it was clear that our teams worked seamlessly together. One of the best things that came from today was the amount of collaborative work we saw on the scene.”

Local leaders also took the opportunity to express gratitude for the professionalism and efforts of emergency services in the community. The collaborative work of various emergency teams—including local police, fire departments, and paramedics—was commended for minimizing the impact of the crash.

Official Statements and Continued Prayers

In the wake of the crash, U.S. Representative Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.) also addressed the incident on social media, offering his thoughts and prayers for the victims. “Amy and I are praying for the victims of today’s plane crash in Tullahoma. My office stands ready to assist local and state authorities as needed,” DesJarlais wrote.

Meanwhile, local community members have rallied behind those affected by the crash, with many offering their support and well-wishes for the recovery of the injured. Prayers and messages of hope continue to pour in for the victims, as the community remains unified during this challenging time.

Conclusion

While the crash of a skydiving plane in Tullahoma has understandably caused concern, the quick response from first responders, the pilot, and local authorities has prevented further tragedy. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for emergency situations and the value of collaboration between local, county, and state officials. As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful for the full recovery of those injured and is deeply grateful for the swift and professional actions of all those involved.

Sources:

1. WKRN News – “Several Injured After Skydiving Plane Crashes in Tullahoma”

2. ABC News – “Skydiving Plane Crash in Tullahoma: Victims’ Status and Investigation Updates”

3. Vanderbilt University Medical Center – “Tullahoma Plane Crash Victims’ Medical Update”