Oklahoma paediatrician identified as pilot severely injured when plane crashed into power lines
Richard Stanford was the sole occupant of a Piper PA-24 Comanche that crashed near Oklahoma City on Sunday
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The pilot of a plane that crashed along an Oklahoma interstate on Sunday has been identified by family.
Richard Stanford, an Oklahoma City padeatrician, was left with critical injuries after his 1962 Piper PA-24 Comanche reportedly struck power lines near Interstate 44 just before 1pm, authorities say.
Mr Stanford, the sole occupant, was rushed to hospital with multiple serious injuries and faces a lengthy recovery, relatives told News 9.
He was awake and responsive on Sunday, the family members said.
Mr Stanford’s plane had departed North Texas Regional Airport in Denison, Texas, and was en route to Wiley Post Airport.
The Oklahoma Fire Department said in a statement Mr Stanford’s plane hit power lines and may have been trying to make an emergency landing along the interstate.
The crash ignited a small fire and brought down power lines on the I-235 ramp to the I-44, causing the closure of the highway. The highway has since reopened, and power has been restored to around 250 homes in the area.
Witness Camille Wynn told KFOR said she saw the plane fly in a circular pattern before it came down.
“I looked over in the field and I just started praying and tears started flowing down my eyes, it was just crazy,” Ms Wynn said.
An air traffic controller discussed with Mr Stanford whether he could attempt to land on the highway, according to The Oklahoman.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol told News 9 it was working to remove the wreckage.
The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the crash.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments