COTABATO CITY: A private plane crashed in a rice field in Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur, killing four people. The crash occurred on Thursday afternoon. Emergency responders recovered the bodies of four victims from the wreckage. The plane involved was a Beechcraft King Air 300 with registration number N349CA.
Crash Details
The victims are described as Caucasian men, though their identities have not yet been confirmed. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the plane flying low before it suddenly crashed. The aircraft appeared to be surveying the area over Ampatuan before its nose dive. The crash site was located in Barangay Malatimon, a rural area.
Social Media Footage
Videos from the scene circulated on social media, showing the wreckage of the plane. One of the videos also showed a water buffalo, fatally injured by the crash. Emergency personnel and local authorities arrived shortly after the incident. Police and military secured the crash site in preparation for further investigation.
Investigation Underway
Investigators from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines are expected to arrive soon. Authorities have not yet determined the purpose or origin of the flight. Initial reports suggested the plane might have been surveying the area before the crash. The cause of the crash is still unknown.
Ongoing Response
Local authorities are working to secure the crash site and assist with the investigation. The police and military are closely monitoring the situation. No further details have been released about the victims or flight origin. The Civil Aviation Authority will play a key role in determining the cause of the accident.
Public Safety Measures
This tragic incident has raised concerns about air safety in the region. The Civil Aviation Authority will likely review the circumstances leading to the crash. Meanwhile, local officials continue to offer assistance to the victims’ families.
Conclusion
The crash has left authorities with many unanswered questions. Efforts to identify the victims and determine the cause are ongoing. The involvement of the US military adds another layer to the mystery surrounding the flight. Local authorities and international partners will continue to collaborate on the investigation.
