Witnesses observed a plume of black smoke emanating from the engine compartment of an amateur-built Monnett Sonerai 2LT airplane shortly after takeoff, leading to a total loss of engine power and an emergency landing in a swamp near Sextonville, on October 12. The pilot, who was the sole occupant on board, sustained serious injuries, and the aircraft was substantially damaged during the crash landing.
According to preliminary information released by the National Transportation Safety Board, the accident occurred around 3:13 p.m. local time during the aircraft's very first test flight, with the engine failure occurring at an altitude of approximately 300 feet above ground level.
The single-engine experimental aircraft suffered significant structural damage to both wings and its fuselage upon impact with the marshy terrain. Weather conditions at the time of the flight were reported as clear, with ten-mile visibility and light winds from the south.
The wreckage has been retained by federal authorities for detailed mechanical evaluation as part of the ongoing investigation.
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at [email protected].