3 killed in Fairview plane crash identified, investigation ongoing
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Six days after a small aircraft crashed into a Fairview townhouse, killing three, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office announced the names of the victims.
The twin-engine Cessna 421C had two people on board when it plummeted around 10:20 a.m. on Saturday and hit a power pole before crashing into the building in Fairview Terrace.
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Authorities say the pilot, 73-year-old Michael C. Busher, had issues controlling the plane along with flight instructor Jacqueline K. Whitford, 79, moments before crashing into the townhome.
The resident of the home, 75-year-old Barbara J. MacDonald, died.
- Firefighters spray water from fire hoses onto a smoldering house after a plane crash in Fairview. August 31, 2024 (courtesy Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office).
- Firefighters discover the plane’s wheel in the debris after a crash in Fairview. August 31, 2024 (courtesy Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office).
- In this photo provided by Portland Fire & Rescue, firefighters use handlines to extinguish the fire adjacent to the primary structure involved after a small plane crashed Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024, in Fairview, Ore. (Greg Muhr/Portland Fire & Rescue via AP)
- Federal investigators remain at the scene two days after a small plane crashed into a row of Fairview townhouses, September 2, 2024 (KOIN)
- Three people died, including one inside this townhome, when a small plane crashed in Fairview, August 31, 2024 (Maddie Shaffer)
- Three people died, including one inside this townhome, when a small plane crashed in Fairview, August 31, 2024 (KOIN)
- On Aug. 31, 2024 a plane crashed into a Fairview townhome, killing 3 people (Gresham Fire)
- A small plane crashed into a Fairview residential neighborhood on Aug. 31 (KOIN)
Multiple residents from other homes in that same row of structures were displaced since many of the buildings were damaged by the explosive impact and fire.
The crash led to a power outage affecting thousands and displaced three families who were occupants of the adjacent townhomes. These three families have set up GoFundMe campaigns to recover from their losses.
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Fairview Mayor Keith Kudrna said the city will continue supporting people impacted by the crash and rebuilding the community.
“We will continue to remain here for the residents of this community,” Kudrna said. “I’ve seen an outpouring of love and support out to the victims, and it makes me proud to represent them.”
The National Transport Safety Board said an investigation could take up to 18 months to complete.
Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.
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