On April 4, 2024, a small aircraft crash in Pushmataha County, Oklahoma caused the death of three residents of Antlers, Oklahoma. The incident involving a 1977 Foutz-Davis DA-3 plane, prompted immediate action from local and national aviation authorities.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol was on the scene swiftly, uncovering the wreckage near the crossing of N 4140 Road, roughly three miles west of Antlers. The accident occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m., seemingly during a regular flight under clear skies.
The casualties of the crash included Brian Davis, 62, the pilot, and passengers Michael Davis, 23, and Kelly Thompson, 21. All three were from Antlers and their deaths have significantly impacted the local community. “The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the entire Antlers community are in mourning after the loss of three of our own in a tragic plane crash,” stated a spokesperson, expressing the community’s collective sorrow.
An officer from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol reported, “Upon arrival, we found the aircraft had suffered significant damage, and unfortunately, there were no survivors.”
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is spearheading the investigation into the crash. Preliminary findings suggest that the plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Antlers Municipal Airport, indicating potential mechanical or operational issues. However, the exact cause is still under investigation. The NTSB anticipates releasing a detailed report in the upcoming months. Aviation records confirm that the plane had been properly maintained and passed all required inspections prior to the flight.
The residents of Antlers have rallied together in the wake of the crash, providing support to the victims’ families and reminiscing about better times. A local resident shared, “Brian, Michael, and Kelly were beloved members of our community, and their loss is felt deeply by all who knew them.”
Jeff Lucas of the Pushmataha County Chamber of Commerce commented, “Waking up to this kind of tragedy is something you never hope for. It hits a small community hard; we’re so close-knit that we see each other at the grocery store and local eateries.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist the family of crash victim Kelly Thompson. Initiated by a family member, the campaign has already raised over $6,500. The campaign message reads: “Our family suffered a profound loss on April 4, 2024, when we lost Kelly, a brilliant and loving young man. Tracey and Jon Trullinger mourn the loss of their dearly loved son, who was taken from us far too soon in a plane crash near Antlers, Oklahoma. We kindly ask for your support to assist his parents in coping with this sudden and devastating loss. The contributions will be used to cover funeral expenses, as well as provide meals and necessities for our family as we gather to honor Kelly’s memory.”
