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Tragic Plane Crash Claims Massachusetts Family
A devastating plane crash in upstate New York claimed the lives of a beloved family from Massachusetts. The tragedy unfolded on April 12 during a trip meant to celebrate a birthday and the Passover holiday in the picturesque Catskills. The victims included Karenna Groff, a former standout MIT soccer player and 2022 NCAA woman of the year, her parents Dr. Michael Groff and Dr. Joy Saini, her brother Jared Groff and his partner Alexia Couyutas Duarte, and her boyfriend, James Santoro.
The Fateful Flight
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a preliminary report detailing the final moments of the ill-fated flight. After taking off from Westchester County Airport at around 11:30 a.m., the private plane, piloted by Michael Groff, departed early that morning from the Boston area, picking up Karenna and Santoro on the way. The family was hopeful and excited about their celebratory getaway.
Communication Breakdown
As the plane approached Columbia County Airport, Michael Groff communicated with air traffic control, indicating he had missed the first approach to the runway. Despite receiving new instructions from the controller around noon, the situation quickly deteriorated. At 11:58 a.m., air traffic control warned Groff about the plane's low altitude. Unfortunately, after that, all communication ceased, leading to radar contact being lost soon after.
Investigation Insights
The Mitsubishi MU-2B-40 aircraft ultimately crashed in a snow-covered area approximately ten miles from its intended destination. While the NTSB has not yet determined the exact cause of the crash, preliminary findings note all significant components were located within a 150-foot debris field. No severe weather advisories were active at the time, although overcast conditions may have impaired visibility, raising questions about the pilot's ability to navigate safely.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety in air travel. As investigations continue, families and friends of the lost ones mourn their absence.
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