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Plane crashes at Lafayette golf course near airport, one dead
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LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) -- One person is dead after a small plane crashed at a golf course in Lafayette, according to reports.
The crash took the life of Greg Manuel, 73, the owner of Manuel Companies in Lafayette, according to company officials. Company staff was informed of Manuel's death this afternoon.
Manuel Companies issued the following statement:
It is with deep sorrow that Manuel Companies announces the tragic passing of its
owner, Greg Manuel, in a plane crash today. Greg was a remarkable leader and a
cherished member of our community.Greg’s dedication to Manuel Companies went beyond business; he was a pillar of our
community, known for his unwavering generosity, commitment to the betterment of
those around him, and his genuine care for the people whose lives he touched. His
contributions will be felt far and wide, leaving an indelible mark on both the professional
and personal lives of many.During this difficult time, Greg’s family requests privacy as they process this profound loss. They appreciate the outpouring of support and understanding from the community and ask for patience as they navigate through the coming days. More details about memorial arrangements and further updates will be shared in due course.
We invite everyone to join us in prayer, honoring Greg’s legacy and reflecting on the
Manuel Companies
positive impact he made
According to the company's website, Manuel Companies is comprised of the sister entities Manuel Builders, Manuel Commercial Architecture & Construction, and Manuel Custom Millworks.
Initial reports said a single-engine plane crashed late Thursday morning at Oakbourne Country Club, which is adjacent to Lafayette Regional Airport. One confirmed occupant inside the aircraft was pronounced dead on site.
The preliminary investigation is of a small, private aircraft that crashed upon takeoff at 11:35 a.m., officials said.
Investigators with the Lafayette Fire Department are on the scene. Authorities said the investigation will be turned over to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which confirmed that it is investigating a crash of a Hawker Beechcraft airplane near Lafayette.
An NTSB investigator is expected to arrive on scene tomorrow, and a preliminary report will be available within 30 days, officials said.
Witnesses to the accident or those who have surveillance video or other information that could be relevant to the investigation are asked to contact the NTSB at witness@ntsb.gov.
This report will be updated as information becomes available.
NOTE: The following video may be disturbing to some viewers.