NTSB: Preliminary plane crash report expected in coming weeks.

NTSB: Preliminary plane crash report expected in coming weeks.

Cause of deadly crash to be determined following comprehensive investigation, which could last 1-2 years.

By Allison Scarbrough, Editor.

SHELBY TOWNSHIP — A preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board regarding the deadly plane crash that occurred in the woods behind a residence on 102nd Avenue last Friday, July 15, is expected within the next week or two, according to NTSB Media Relations Representative Peter Knudson.

However, the cause of the crash may not be determined for up to two years.

“The preliminary report is expected within two to three weeks from the date of the accident,” said Kundson. “The cause of the accident will be determined at the conclusion of a comprehensive investigation, which is expected to last 12-24 months.”

Two Muskegon County men died in the crash that occurred between Buchanan and Woodrow roads around 6:15 p.m, according to the Michigan State Police. 

The pilot was identified as Raymond Gundy, 56, of Muskegon County, and the passenger was Troy Caris, 48, of Holton. They were the only occupants of the plane, and no one else was injured.

Along with NTSB, also investigating the crash scene were representatives from the Federal Aviation Administration and Cessna, according to MSP. 

Witnesses heard the single-engine Cessna 210 plane “appear to struggle,” said Oceana County Sheriff Craig Mast, and it crashed behind a house. A witness said he heard a “big bang” and saw debris strewn in his yard. 

Foggy and rainy weather conditions and mechanical issues may have played a role in the crash.

The plane had taken off from the nearby Oceana County Airport, according to MSP.

The Shelby-Benona Fire Department assisted at the scene.

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