Two individuals were injured on June 16, 2025, after a twin-engine aircraft lost power and crash-landed on top of a hangar at New Century AirCenter near Gardner, Kansas. Authorities have cited a mechanical malfunction as the likely cause of the accident, which remains under investigation by federal aviation officials.
At approximately 1:15 p.m., a Beechcraft King Air 90 traveling southbound experienced an engine failure mid-flight. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that the aircraft’s left engine became inoperable, causing the plane to veer left uncontrollably before it impacted the roof of the Butler Avionics Hangar.
The pilot, 73-year-old Leslie Gordon of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and his passenger, 30-year-old Delaney Rindal of Wasilla, Arkansas, were both transported to Overland Park Regional Health Center with injuries. Emergency crews responded within minutes, and the hangar was quickly evacuated. Fortunately, no one inside the hangar was injured.
Potential Causes and Contributing Factors
Initial findings suggest the crash was triggered by a mechanical malfunction of the left engine. The precise reason for the engine failure—whether due to a maintenance oversight, defective component, or another cause—has yet to be determined. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a formal investigation.
Mechanical failures in twin-engine aircraft can be catastrophic, especially during landing or low-altitude phases of flight. Proper engine inspection, maintenance compliance, and emergency readiness are critical components of aviation safety—and a breakdown in any one of these areas may lead to liability.
Safety and Legal Implications
Aviation accidents raise serious safety and legal concerns. While no one on the ground was harmed in this crash, the aircraft landed in a densely occupied area, creating a high risk to both occupants and personnel inside the building.
The crash also raises broader questions about whether:
- The aircraft was properly inspected and maintained
- Known mechanical issues were addressed in accordance with FAA regulations
- Training and supervision for the pilot and passenger were adequate
- The aircraft’s design or components may have contributed to the loss of control
When these types of questions arise, injured parties have the right to investigate and, if warranted, pursue claims against negligent parties such as maintenance contractors, aircraft owners, component manufacturers, or flight training organizations.
Understanding Your Rights After an Aviation Injury
Aviation accidents often involve complex technical and legal issues. Victims may suffer not only physical harm but also emotional trauma, lost wages, and ongoing medical expenses. Even when injuries are initially described as “minor,” it is essential to protect your legal rights by consulting with counsel experienced in aviation law.
The attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm have represented victims of aviation accidents across the country. Our team is well-versed in aircraft safety standards, maintenance protocols, and federal aviation regulations. We are prepared to help victims uncover the root causes of a crash and hold responsible parties accountable.
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm
If you or a loved one has been injured in an aviation accident—whether involving a private plane, commercial aircraft, or helicopter—our team is ready to help. Our plane crash lawyers understand the challenges victims face and are committed to securing the compensation they deserve.
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation.
📞 Call us at 713-804-9306
Let our experienced aviation accident attorneys guide you through your legal options and fight for the justice you deserve.