The Sheriff’s Office and emergency services personnel were notified at approximately 11:15 AM today that a small single engine private aircraft had crashed near the end of the runway at the Gaston’s Resort.  It was reported that there were no injuries involved in the incident.

     Responders from the Sheriff’s Office, Lakeview Police Department, Grover Township Fire Department, and the Office of Emergency Management went to the scene.  It was learned that the aircraft, a 1974 Piper registered to a company in Texarkana, Texas, was occupied by three persons at the time of the incident.  The aircraft was piloted by 62 year old Tony Clowers of Texarkana.

     Indications are that the pilot was attempting to take off, lost lift, and overshot the end of the runway.  The occupants, all from Texarkana, had been staying at Gaston’s for several days and were returning home.    

     The FAA has been notified of the incident and will be here tomorrow to investigate.  The damaged aircraft remains in its stopping place pending further investigation.

/s/ John F. Montgomery,
Baxter County Sheriff