Local News
Victims killed in plane crash near Pitt-Greenville Airport identified
Greenville, NC – March 2025 – Authorities have confirmed that two individuals were killed when a Beechcraft Bonanza aircraft crashed in Greenville on Friday morning.
The North Carolina Highway Patrol (NCHP) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the aircraft went down in the vicinity of North Memorial Drive and Belvoir Road.
The wreckage was later located near Consolidated Pipe on North Greene Street.
Law enforcement officials at the scene recovered human remains, confirming that both occupants perished in the crash.
The victims have been identified as Dr. Mark Bowman, a respected Greenville family dentist, and his wife, Robin Bowman.
Dr. Bowman had been practicing dentistry in eastern North Carolina for over 33 years. He earned his undergraduate degree in Chemistry and Biology in 1982, followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1986.
Throughout his career, he was actively involved in several professional organizations, including: American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, North Carolina Dental Society, 5th District Dental Society and Flying Dentist Association.
Additionally, Dr. Bowman was a Lifetime Member of the Dental Alumni Association at UNC-Chapel Hill. Beyond his profession, he was an avid pilot and enjoyed flying, as well as boating, fishing, and beach activities with family and friends.
As a result of the crash, authorities have closed North Memorial Drive from Airport Road to Belvoir Road.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) estimates that the closure will remain in effect until at least 7:00 p.m. on Friday.
However, Trooper Rico Stephens stated that there is no evidence the aircraft struck the roadway before impact.
According to flight records, the Beechcraft Bonanza departed from Pitt-Greenville Airport (PGV) at 7:46 a.m., en route to Vero Beach, Florida.
The crash was reported shortly after takeoff.
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. Federal authorities will analyze:
- Flight data and communications
- Pilot records
- Weather conditions
- Aircraft maintenance history
Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.
SURF CITY, N.C. — Emergency crews are battling a large multi-structure fire in Surf City that has already destroyed at least three homes and a large boat, according to reports from the scene and emergency radio traffic.
The blaze reportedly began near 5th Street, directly across from The Trailer Bar, and quickly spread to multiple nearby residences and a docked vessel.
Witnesses described seeing towering flames and heavy smoke visible from several blocks away as firefighters worked to contain the rapidly expanding fire.
Scanner reports indicate that multiple fire departments and emergency agencies from surrounding areas have been dispatched to assist Surf City Fire and Rescue in controlling the blaze and preventing it from spreading further.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire or whether there are any injuries.
Residents in the area were urged to avoid 5th Street and surrounding roads to allow emergency personnel full access to the scene.
This is a developing story, and additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available from Surf City officials and emergency services.