Local News
Dustin Mckinney Killed After Skydiving Plane Carrying 11 Jumpers and Pilot Crashes Near Butler Memorial Airport in Missouri
BUTLER, Missouri — Dustin McKinney and Jen Sharp were reportedly among the 12 people who lost their lives after a skydiving aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Butler Memorial Airport on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
Authorities have not yet released an official list of victims, as next-of-kin notifications remain ongoing.
According to information released by Skydive Kansas City and emergency management officials, the aircraft involved in the tragedy was a PAC750 being used in support of skydiving operations.
The plane departed Butler Memorial Airport (KBUM) at approximately noon and was carrying 11 skydivers and one pilot when it went down in the area of Business 49 Highway south of the Kansas City metropolitan region.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed that all 12 people aboard the aircraft were killed in the crash.
Preliminary reports indicate that the pilot may have turned the aircraft back toward the airport shortly after takeoff for reasons that remain unknown before the aircraft crashed.
Emergency responders quickly converged on the scene, including personnel from local fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and aviation investigators. Authorities secured the area and closed nearby roadways while recovery operations and evidence collection were conducted.
Preliminary information suggests that Jen Sharp may have been aboard the aircraft while participating in a coach evaluation jump.
Reports also indicate that Dustin McKinney was among those on board. However, officials have stressed that victim identifications remain subject to confirmation until formal notifications are completed and investigative procedures are finalized.
In a statement following the crash, Skydive Kansas City confirmed the devastating loss of all 12 individuals aboard the aircraft.
“Tragically, all 12 individuals aboard lost their lives in the accident. This is a devastating loss for everyone connected to Skydive Kansas City and for the wider skydiving community.”
The organization said its primary focus is supporting grieving families, staff members, and the close-knit skydiving community while cooperating fully with investigators.
Skydive Kansas City also noted that it is a United States Parachute Association (USPA) Group Member Drop Zone in good standing.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a comprehensive investigation into the crash. Investigators spent hours examining the wreckage and surrounding area to determine whether any jumpers exited the aircraft prior to impact.
At this stage, the cause of the crash has not been determined. Officials have not released information regarding possible mechanical issues, weather conditions, or other factors that may have contributed to the accident.
The crash has sent shockwaves throughout Missouri’s aviation and skydiving communities. Friends, fellow skydivers, and community members have begun sharing tributes online as families await official confirmation and additional details from investigators.
Authorities continue working to identify all victims and notify their families.
The investigation remains active, and additional information is expected to be released as it becomes available.
Local News
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. — A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.