Two California-based pilots, Nick Macy and Chris Rushing, tragically lost their lives in a plane crash during an air racing event in Reno on Sunday. According to the Reno Air Racing Association, the incident took place around 2:15 p.m. when the two planes collided while landing at the conclusion of the T-6 Gold race.
Macy, who was based in Tulelake, Siskiyou County, and Rushing, who flew out of Van Nuys, were described by the association as “expertly skilled pilots and Gold winners in the T-6 Class.” Rushing was also the president of the Condor Squadron at Van Nuys Airport, and he had been interviewed by Eyewitness News on several occasions.
This devastating crash occurred on the final day of the National Championship Air Races in Reno. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries to other individuals present at the event.
Fred Telling, chairman of the Reno Air Racing Association and president of the T-6 Class, expressed his deep sorrow over the incident. “I am completely devastated and heartbroken today,” Telling said. “These two pilots weren’t just an integral part of the National Championship Air Race family, they were a part of my family. My heart goes out to their own families and to all of the spectators and fans who have so enthusiastically supported us this week.”
In their efforts to determine the cause of the accident, authorities are cooperating with the National Transportation Safety Board, the Federal Aviation Administration, and local authorities. The investigation will seek to shed light on the circumstances that led to this tragic incident.
The aviation community mourns the loss of Macy and Rushing, who will be remembered for their remarkable skills and contributions to the sport. Their deaths serve as a reminder of the risks involved in air racing and the importance of safety measures in such events.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.