Fatal Guthrie plane crash: 'Sounded like a failing lawnmower'

Investigators with the FAA and NTSB returned to the scene of a deadly plane crash in Guthrie.

Tuesday, July 1st 2025, 10:20 pm

By: Sylvia Corkill

Guthrie -

Investigators with the FAA and NTSB returned to the scene of a deadly plane crash in Guthrie.

A preliminary investigation report by the FAA indicated the plane’s pilot was killed after crashing into a field “under unknown circumstances.”

Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers responded to Monday’s crash near South Broadway and West Seward.

According to a preliminary report by the FAA, the pilot of the plane was operating a RANS S-14, an experimental aircraft normally constructed by amateurs.

The pilot’s friends told troopers the man indicated he would only be taxiing the plane on private property. When he failed to return, the pilot's friends went searching for him and discovered the crash. Residents said they saw the plane flying and heard what sounded like a "failing lawnmower" before the crash.

Investigators said no one else was hurt. The crash remains under investigation.

Sylvia Corkill

A proud Okie from Lawton, Sylvia Corkill joined the News 9 team in 2016. She anchors the weekend evening newscasts and reports on weekdays. During her career, Sylvia developed a passion for investigative reporting, particularly in the areas of crime and law enforcement. She has covered major trials and drug busts, and she once participated in a national manhunt investigation.