On December 17, 2023, tragedy struck in Independence, Oregon as a small plane crashed into power lines, claiming the lives of all three individuals on board. The Independence Police Department reported that Polk County emergency services received the distressing call about the single-engine plane crash around 4:55 p.m. local time.
The collision with the electrical power lines not only resulted in the tragic loss of life but also sparked a small brush fire and caused a power outage in the community, located approximately 12 miles southwest of Salem. According to the Independence Police Department’s statement posted on social media, the crash left at least 375 customers without power in the area.
In the wake of the devastating incident, both the Independence police and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched investigations to determine the cause of the crash. As of now, the names of the deceased have not been released to the public.
The community is left mourning the loss of the three individuals and grappling with the aftermath of the crash. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic event. As the investigation unfolds, authorities will work tirelessly to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash and develop a better understanding of what led to this devastating outcome.