Fatal small plane crash in upstate New York under investigation

COPAKE, N.Y. (WTEN) — An investigation is currently underway after a twin-engine plane carrying six people crashed in upstate New York early Saturday afternoon. The Mitsubishi MU-2B-40 airplane crashed in the middle of an open field in Copake, authorities reported. According to the FAA, six people were on board and the plane was heading to the Columbia County Airport in Hudson. All six people are presumed dead, according to an official familiar with the crash, who could not discuss details of the investigation publicly and spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity. The Columbia County Sheriff's Office declined to comment on the number of fatalities during a press conference Saturday and did not name those on the plane. Several agencies responded to the scene, including the FAA, New York State Police, and the coroner. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation. According to Columbia County Undersheriff Jacqueline Salvatore, the crash site was muddy due to weather, making it difficult for emergency crews to access the scene. Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed the crash, has video of it, or can provide any other information to call the Columbia County Sheriff's Office at (518) 828-3344. Additional information is expected Sunday afternoon. The Associated Press contributed to this report.