On June 30, a devastating plane crash claimed the lives of a family of five who were returning from a youth baseball tournament in upstate New York. The family was traveling in a single-engine Piper Malibu Mirage plane, which took off from Oneonta Municipal Airport. The crash occurred in Masonville, New York, approximately 90 miles southeast of Syracuse. Authorities identified the victims as Roger Beggs, 76; Laura VanEpps, 43; Ryan VanEpps, 42; James R. VanEpps, 12; and Harrison VanEpps, 10.
Returning from a Special Visit to Cooperstown
The family had been visiting Cooperstown, New York, a place known for hosting youth baseball tournaments and home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. It was a trip that many families cherish, with Cooperstown being a significant destination for young athletes. The excitement of the tournament, however, quickly turned into tragedy with the fatal crash that took their lives.
Authorities Respond to the Crash
Local authorities were notified of a possible crash around 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 30. A search was immediately conducted in the Lake Cecil Road area, where helicopters, drones, and ATVs were utilized to locate the crash site. After hours of searching, the wreckage of the aircraft was found. Roger Beggs, the grandfather of the children, was identified as the pilot, and the flight plan included a scheduled refueling stop in West Virginia before continuing on to Atlanta, as reported by People magazine.
Condolences from Officials and Family
The news of the crash has deeply affected many, including Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, who expressed his condolences on social media. “As we learn of this tragic news, please join Marty, the girls, and me in praying for the loved ones of the Beggs and VanEpps families. We offer our deepest condolences to all who knew and loved them,” he wrote. Family members, including Ryan VanEpps’ sister, Ansley, have also shared their profound grief over the loss of their loved ones.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and state police. This tragic incident has shaken the community and brought immeasurable sorrow to the friends and family of the VanEpps. As the investigation continues, our thoughts are with the families as they navigate this difficult time.
