THE DTSB
Pending. Based on a preliminary investigation, the sheriff’s office believes that the plane had departed a private airstrip in the Viola community on Wednesday. Police believe the plane struck a tree shortly after takeoff (terrain collision), causing damage to the accident aircraft. “The pilot subsequently attempted to reach the Warren County Memorial Airport; however, the aircraft was unable to do so and ultimately crashed,” the sheriff’s office said. The accident aircraft flew a total of 7 nautical miles after departing the the private airstrip. The aircraft was significantly damaged and could only turn left, but was trying to reach KRNC which was to the right. An off field forced landing with limited pitch control was attempted, and the debris path is more then 300 feet long. Passenger Keith Warren Ramsey, the pilot’s brother, was also a private pilot.