Reno, NVAt least three people have died and 50 more were injured in a horrific plane crash in Reno on Friday. The airplane crash occurred at an air race, and took the life of the 74-year-old pilot and at least two race spectators. Many of the injured suffered life-threatening injuries in the airplane accident, in which the plane plunged into the spectator stands.
Although it is not known what caused the tragic crash, Mike Houghton, president of the Reno Championship Air Races speculated that the plane could have suffered a mechanical failure. The pilot, Jimmy Leeward, was described as experienced and talented.
The plane involved in the crash was a P-51 Mustang, a World War II-era fighter, called the "Galloping Ghost."
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with one witness telling The Associated Press (09/16/11) that even people who were still alive were missing body parts. Fifty-six people were taken to hospital in emergency vehicles although others were taken to by private vehicle and were not counted among the injured. Of those taken to hospital by emergency vehicle, 15 were in critical condition.
According to reports, the plane crashed into the area in front of the grandstand at around 4:30 pm. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash.
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