Two brothers killed in Warren County plane crash, investigators say

Two people were killed Wednesday after a small plane crashed in a corn field near Morrison Industrial Park in Warren County, according to the Warren County Sheriff's Office. Authorities said Warren County E-911 received a report of a possible aircraft crash at approximately 12:19 p.m. Deputies, firefighters and other emergency responders responded to the area and located the downed aircraft in a field near the industrial park. Both occupants of the aircraft were pronounced dead at the scene. According to a preliminary investigation, the aircraft departed from a private airstrip in the Viola community shortly before the crash. Investigators believe the plane struck a tree after takeoff, causing damage to the aircraft. Officials said the pilot then attempted to reach Warren County Memorial Airport but was unable to do so before the aircraft crashed. Before the crash, Warren County Commissioner Blaine Wilcher said he heard what sounded like an aircraft engine experiencing trouble while working nearby. Wilcher said the engine sounded inconsistent and that he watched the aircraft appear to dive before pulling back up. He then saw the plane begin descending straight down before it disappeared behind a tree line. Moments later, he said he heard and felt the impact of the crash and called 911. He later watched emergency vehicles respond to the area. The crash occurred in a field and wooded area near Doyle Frazier Road, behind Morrison Industries on Progress Boulevard, according to Wilcher. Authorities have not officially identified the victims pending notification procedures and coordination with investigative agencies. However, family members have confirmed the two men on board were brothers from the Viola community. The National Transportation Safety Board and other agencies are investigating the cause of the crash. Officials are asking the public to avoid the area while investigators and emergency personnel continue their work. This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.