A devastating aviation accident in Lee County, North Carolina, has taken the lives of an entire family. On the afternoon of July 7, 2025, a small aircraft—later identified as a Cirrus SR22T—crashed near the Sanford Raleigh Executive Airport, killing all four people on board.
Incident Summary
At approximately 2 p.m., the North Carolina Highway Patrol responded to reports of a downed aircraft in a field just south of Riddle Road. The aircraft had been en route from Merritt Island, Florida, and was nearing its destination at Raleigh Executive Jetport when the crash occurred.
The victims have been identified as: Travis Buchanan (35), Candace Buchanan (35), and their two children, Aubrey (10) and Walker (9). Three family members died at the crash site, while one was airlifted to UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill but was later pronounced dead.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the accident. As of now, the crash is officially classified as occurring under “unknown circumstances.”
Understanding the Risks in Small Plane Accidents
Crashes involving private, single-engine aircraft like the Cirrus SR22T are a serious safety concern in general aviation. These tragedies often occur during the most critical phases of flight—takeoff and landing—and may be caused or worsened by a variety of factors:
- Mechanical Failures: Engine malfunctions, fuel delivery issues, or avionics system failures can lead to sudden loss of control.
- Weather Conditions: Sudden changes in wind, low visibility, or storms can overwhelm even experienced pilots.
- Pilot Error: Misjudgments during descent or approach are a common cause of general aviation crashes.
- Overloading or Weight Misdistribution: These factors can affect aircraft stability, especially in smaller planes.
- Inadequate Maintenance: Private aircraft must follow strict maintenance schedules; failures can lead to catastrophic results.
The FAA and NTSB will likely examine the plane’s maintenance logs, flight data, pilot certifications, and possible environmental factors as part of their investigation.
Legal Rights and Considerations for Surviving Family Members
When a fatal aviation accident occurs, especially one involving a private aircraft, the families of the victims may have grounds for legal action. Claims may be brought against:
- Aircraft manufacturers, if a design or production flaw contributed to the crash
- Maintenance providers or repair facilities for mechanic liability, if a failure to properly inspect or repair the aircraft played a role
- Air traffic controllers or airport authorities, if communications or runway operations were factors
- Flight schools or instructors, in cases involving recent training or recurrent instruction
A wrongful death claim may help recover damages for funeral expenses, lost income, emotional suffering, and more. An experienced aviation accident attorney can investigate the circumstances and determine all potentially liable parties.
Call Spagnoletti Law Firm for Help After an Aviation Tragedy
Spagnoletti Law Firm provides legal support to families grieving the loss of a loved one in a small plane crash. We understand the complex nature of these cases and the emotional toll they take. Our team will work with investigators and experts to determine the cause of the crash and pursue full accountability.
If your family has suffered a loss in an airplane accident, contact us today at 713-804-9306. We are available to provide the answers you need and help you seek justice through the legal system.