WALTERBORO, S.C. – A woman was critically injured when her single-engine plane crashed into a pond in the 5000 block of Wiggins Road in Colleton County. The plane experienced mechanical issues before hitting several trees and plunging into the water, according to Colleton County Fire officials.
The owner of the property witnessed the crash and rushed to help. Upon reaching the scene, he found the woman, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, suffering from severe injuries. The impact of the crash had caused a wing to detach from the fuselage, leading to fuel leakage in and around the pond.
Firefighters-paramedics, along with the assistance of bystanders, extricated the woman from the wreckage. She was then airlifted to the Trauma Center at the Medical University of South Carolina, where she received advanced medical care.
The swift response of Colleton Fire-Rescue, the Department of Health and Environmental Control, and the Federal Aviation Administration ensured a coordinated effort to deal with the aftermath of the crash.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of flying, particularly in the event of mechanical failures. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash and the extent of the woman’s injuries.
In light of the incident, it is essential for all aircraft owners and operators to ensure regular maintenance checks and adhere to safety protocols to prevent accidents. The details of the investigation and the woman’s condition are yet to be disclosed to the public.